9-Day Road Trip to Spain, France, and Switzerland

Your unforgettable multi-country road trip in Spain, France, and Switzerland begins the moment you arrive in the awe-inspiring city of Barcelona in Spain. You’ll check in at a top-rated hotel and stay in Barcelona for 2 nights.

Catch an early flight to Spain to enjoy as much time as possible exploring Barcelona before it’s time to hit the road and drive to your next destination. Discover the city’s rich history, breathtaking sights, and lively atmosphere with visits to the most popular attractions.

One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable Parc de la Ciutadella. This outstanding urban park and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year. Garnering an average rating of 4.6 stars out of 5 from 68,100 travelers, a visit to the remarkable Parc de la Ciutadella is worth pages in your travel diary.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Barcelona. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Spain. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.

As the day unfolds, you’ll be delighted to find that the city of Barcelona boasts an array of restaurants and bars catering to every budget. Take this opportunity to sample the distinctive flavors of Spain.

Indulge in an exquisite Bib Gourmand dining experience at Lasarte. Renowned for its prestigious 3 Michelin-star rating and an array of mouthwatering dishes, Lasarte consistently impresses foreign and local diners, garnering praise for its exceptional creative cuisine.

If you’re looking for a bar to end the evening at, many locals recommend Hemingway Gin & Cocktail Bar, claiming it’s one of the best in the city. This bar has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 893 customers.

Another popular place to go for a drink is La Whiskeria - Whisky & Cocktail Bar. It is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 743 customers.

Cerveseria Catalana is a place where you can easily spend an hour or two of fun or relaxation. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 14,751 customers.

Your multi-country road trip in Spain, France, and Switzerland has only just begun. Brace yourself for more exciting days to come as you cross country borders in the comfort of your rental car and discover the most unique attractions, activities, and foods of each destination.

Wake up and see what day 2 of your great European road trip in Spain, France, and Switzerland has in store for you! You will be staying in Barcelona for 1 night before continuing your journey to the next destination.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated sculpture garden and attraction in Barcelona — Park Güell. About 181,403 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

The popular Sagrada Família is another top sight in Barcelona that locals and travelers often enjoy spending time at. This attraction is a well-loved minor basilica in the area, rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 226,955 visitors.

La Pedrera is a spectacular monument and highlight on travelers’ itineraries in Barcelona, earning an impressive average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 85,188 enchanted visitors.

As the day moves along, be sure to make time to drop by the magnificent Casa Batlló. Because of its allure and charm, around 125,060 visitors have rated this attraction and tourist attraction an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

Discover the allure of Magic Fountain of Montjuïc. Echoing its popularity, 85,986 travelers have awarded this famous fountain and sightseeing spot an impressive average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

If you're eager to sample culinary delights during your multi-country road trip in Spain, France, and Switzerland, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Barcelona. After dinner, head out to a bar to reminisce about your day and raise a toast to this stop on your road trip.

Reserve your spot at El Nacional, a popular local restaurant in Barcelona. This culinary hotspot and its flavorful dishes have left a lasting impression on guests. Its dedication to culinary mastery is reflected by its 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 23,496 satisfied guests.

Make it a priority to experience El Bosc de Les Fades during your stay in Barcelona. This popular local restaurant offers an unparalleled menu, with a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, by 14,606 discerning guests.

Explore the culinary wonders of Ciutat Comtal, a popular local gem in Barcelona. Its enticing menu promises a journey through flavors that will leave a lasting impression. Renowned for its impeccable service, it boasts a 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 12,951 satisfied guests.

Wrap up your evening by visiting the renowned Ocaña, a must-visit hotspot in the city of Barcelona. This bar has garnered an impressive average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, backed by 8,052 delighted customers.

Alternatively, quench your thirst at the popular Elsa y Fred, consistently rated 4.4 out of 5 stars in reviews.

Or, for an authentic local recommendation, head over to El Xampanyet, one of the top-rated bars in Barcelona, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,394 satisfied customers.

Celebrate day 2 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 3 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Spain, France, and Switzerland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Barcelona in Spain and Montpellier in France. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Montpellier, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Barcelona is the fantastic Cathedral of the Holy Cross and Saint Eulalia. As an appreciated catholic cathedral and local gem in the area, Cathedral of the Holy Cross and Saint Eulalia has earned an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 62,263 reviews.

Next up on your agenda, you will find the extraordinary Mercado de La Boqueria. This attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 160,835 visitors, so don't miss the opportunity to experience it for yourself!

Join countless others in discovering the allure of Plaça de Catalunya, a standout square and attraction that's captivated the hearts of many. It has a stellar rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 175,036 reviewers.

Experience the magic that has drawn so many to the doorstep of the outstanding Palau de la Música Catalana. This concert hall is a highly recommended attraction in the city boasting an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 40,217 visitor reviews.

When you arrive, take a break from the road to indulge in some sightseeing.

Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Barcelona today.

Relax your senses after a day of exhilarating activities and fun exploration. Retreat to one of the best accommodations in Montpellier.

As the day unfolds, you’ll be delighted to find that the city of Montpellier boasts an array of restaurants and bars catering to every budget. Take this opportunity to sample the distinctive flavors of France.

Have a delightful culinary experience when you dine at Coldrip food and coffee. Favored by many foreign travelers and locals, this restaurant in Montpellier boasts a carefully curated and enticing menu. Its delectable dishes have earned it an impressive rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from around 644 visitors.

Another dining spot you shouldn’t miss while in Montpellier is Empanadas Club. It has garnered a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,371 diners thanks to its impeccable menu options and flavors.

Experience a celebration of flavors when you dine in at Fitzpatrick's Irish Pub, in Montpellier. Its delightful menu and flavorful dishes have earned it a stellar rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 1,623 satisfied customers.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Montpellier. At Les Enfants Rouges, you can enjoy a mix of fun and relaxation. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,050 customers.

Alternatively, unwind and relive your best memories of this day of your adventure at O'Carolans Irish Pub, another popular bar in the city. Customers have rated this fantastic bar an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 1,118 reviews.

The Shakespeare is also one of the best places in Montpellier where you can let loose and enjoy some celebratory drinks. This bar has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 903 customers.

Take in the ambiance of Montpellier as this vacation day slowly comes to an end. Whether you’re going bar hopping or you decide on a quiet night at your hotel, you have another exciting day of your road trip to look forward to!

On day 4 of your multi-country road trip across Spain, France, and 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 to see in Les Baux-de-Provence in France. In the evening, you’ll end up in Lyon, where you will stay for 1 night.

While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Les Baux-de-Provence today.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Les Baux-de-Provence today.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Upon arrival, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

After an exciting day of sightseeing, it’s time to check in at your accommodation in Lyon. This is not only a place to sleep but your home away from home, offering a warm welcome after a long day on the road.

Before this memorable day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of France's delectable cuisine at one of Lyon's best restaurants. After a nice meal, enhance your vacation experience by enjoying the local nightlife or unwinding with a drink or two in the city’s most recommended bars.

Reserve your spot at L Bar food & drink, a popular local restaurant in Lyon. This culinary hotspot and its flavorful dishes have left a lasting impression on guests. Its dedication to culinary mastery is reflected by its 4.8 out of 5-star rating from 2,758 satisfied guests.

Make it a priority to experience Bouchon Tupin during your stay in Lyon. This popular local restaurant offers an unparalleled menu, with a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars, by 969 discerning guests.

Explore the culinary wonders of L'Institut Restaurant, a popular local gem in Lyon. Its enticing menu promises a journey through flavors that will leave a lasting impression. Renowned for its impeccable service, it boasts a 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 853 satisfied guests.

If you’re looking for a bar to end the evening at, many locals recommend Black Forest Society, claiming it’s one of the best in the city. This bar has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 500 customers.

Another popular place to go for a drink is Livestation DIY - Lyon. It is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,452 customers.

Les Fleurs du Malt le Bar "La Mise en Bière" is a place where you can easily spend an hour or two of fun or relaxation. This bar is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,225 customers.

Spend the evening looking over your itinerary for tomorrow and reminisce about what you’ve seen and done so far on your European road trip adventure. New experiences await!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your multi-country journey across Spain, France, and Switzerland. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Lausanne in Switzerland. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat for a restful slumber at one of the best hotels in Geneva. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination.

An exhilarating day of exploring and driving will have you longing for a comfortable bed at the end of the day. Fortunately, Geneva’s top hotels offer a lovely retreat at day’s end. Choose from options ranging from budget to luxury.

As the sun dips under the horizon, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Geneva. Check out our recommendations on where to wine and dine while seeing this marvelous destination in Switzerland in a new light. After dinner, head out to a bar to relax, mingle with the locals, and raise a toast to your unforgettable road trip vacation in Europe.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Il Lago. Holding an impressive 1 Michelin-star rating and a remarkable menu, Il Lago consistently impresses both foreign and local guests, earning praise for its exceptional italian and mediterranean cuisine.

Another renowned restaurant is L'Atelier Robuchon, one of the best Bib Gourmand 2-star Michelin fine dining venues in Geneva. Take your pick from the french contemporary menu, where each dish is a masterpiece meticulously crafted to delight your senses.

Prepare yourself for an unforgettable dining experience at Bayview by Michel Roth in Geneva. With its prestigious 1-Michelin star rating, the menu is crafted to delight your palate and take you on a culinary journey. This acclaimed restaurant with a Bib-Gourmand award, serves modern french and mediterranean dishes that have garnered numerous reviews from satisfied guests.

After your meal, continue your getaway at one of the hottest bars in the city, Beau-Rivage Genève. This bar has an impressive average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,169 customers.

Alternatively, you can grab a few shots of your favorite drink and have an amazing night at the famous Demi Lune Café. This incredible bar has a vibrant atmosphere and plays great music, worthy of its average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 968 customers.

Le Kraken cannot be missed with its wide selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. Around 898 bar lovers have given this place a seal of approval with their 4.3 out of 5 stars average rating.

Go to bed happy and look forward to a good night’s sleep as soon as your head hits the pillow. Your European tour continues tomorrow!

Day 6 of your multi-country road trip promises a full day of discoveries in beautiful Geneva. Enjoy time off the road as you’ll be staying in the city for 1 night more before hitting the road again.

In Geneva, the extraordinary Bains des Pâquis awaits. This attraction is a valued public bath that boasts an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 8,194 travelers' reviews.

Another of the best travel destinations in Geneva is the spectacular Jardin Anglais. This attraction is an urban park that is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 18,129 visitors, making it a captivating highlight for all travelers.

You could then travel to the amazing L'horloge fleurie. This local floral clock and wonder has an overall review score of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 11,614 visitors, proving its popularity among travelers.

The Geneva Water Fountain is another attraction you might want to add to your Geneva exploration itinerary. This park is a popular stop among travelers in the area, as seen in its average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 16,281 reviews.

After a day of exploration and awe-inspiring sights, it’s time to replenish your strength. Make the most of this stop on your multi-country road trip across Spain, France, and Switzerland by rewarding yourself with a taste of Geneva’s local cuisine. After dinner, head out to a bar to relax or mingle with the locals and raise a toast to your exciting road trip adventure.

For a memorable dining experience, be sure to visit Restaurant Les Armures. Known for its excellent cuisine and commitment to quality dishes, this restaurant in Geneva has received a 4.5 out of 5-star rating from around 1,758 happy diners.

When seeking local-favorite dining spots, Cottage Café should be on your list. Situated in the heart of Geneva, it has become a beloved food venue for its delicious menu. It boasts a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,337 satisfied diners, a testament to its favored status.

Ready for a culinary adventure? Book a table at Tartares & Co. This highly regarded restaurant in Geneva has earned a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars, thanks to its flavorful dishes and positive reviews from 707 satisfied guests.

Order some of the best-tasting cocktails and celebrate the night away at Mr Pickwick Pub. This famous bar in Geneva has a rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 1,993 customers.

You can also check out an equally popular bar in the area, Café du Centre. This amazing place never disappoints with its variety of drinks and fantastic ambiance. Café du Centre has received an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars from 2,188 customers.

If you want to visit another bar, we recommend Les Brasseurs. This bar offers guests many choices of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages to pair with a great night, helping it earn an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 1,451 customers.

Relax, recharge, and look forward to what tomorrow holds. The opportunities are endless with a European self-drive tour!

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Spain, France, and Switzerland. Today you will jump into the car and make your way to Caluire-et-Cuire in France, 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 Nimes. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Upon arrival, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

After a long day of driving and exploring, you’ll check in at a top-recommended hotel in Nimes of your choice.

If you're eager to sample culinary delights during your multi-country road trip in Spain, France, and Switzerland, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Nimes. After dinner, head out to a bar to reminisce about your day and raise a toast to this stop on your road trip.

Don't forget to book a table at The Bird, a well-known eatery in Nimes. This popular restaurant and its sumptuous cuisine have won the hearts of food lovers. Its commitment to a delicious menu is evident in its 4.8 out of 5-star rating from 659 satisfied guests.

Ensure you visit Restaurant Skab while exploring Nimes. This popular restaurant offers a delicious menu, distinguished with a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars, celebrated by 591 discerning guests.

Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Le Dé-K-Lé Bistrot Gourmand, a popular restaurant in Nimes. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Its reputation is reflected in its 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 1,576 discerning diners.

If you’re in the mood for a drink, visit O’Flaherty’s, one of the top bars in the city. An excellent place to unwind and enjoy a refreshing evening drink, O’Flaherty’s has earned an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,377 customers.

Alternatively, you could enjoy a toast with locals and other travelers at Restaurant Au Flan Coco Nimes, a crowd-favorite. Around 993 customers have rated their experience at Restaurant Au Flan Coco Nimes an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Le Questel belongs to the list of the best bars in Nimes, and its ratings and reviews are proof of this claim. This bar is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 575 bar-goers.

As the night falls in Nimes, take a moment to savor the experiences of the day. Wash away your fatigue with a drink, or lay back and relax at your hotel, and look forward to another thrilling day of your multi-country journey across Europe.

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 3 stops. Today you will experience some of the highlights of this European tour package, that is, the wonderful destinations of Nimes in France and Figueres in Spain. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Barcelona. Barcelona will be your home for 1 night.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Nimes, including the outstanding Musée de la Romanité. Having an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 4,534 reviews and welcoming more than 25,271 visitors each year, this fascinating museum and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.

Nimes is also home to the captivating Jardin de La Fontaine, a local park considered one of the highlights of the city. About 15,878 visitors have rated this incredible site with 4.7 out of 5 stars, proving its popularity.

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

After a long day of discovery, it's time to settle in at a top-rated hotel in Barcelona. Indulge in well-deserved rest and rejuvenation, preparing for the continued adventure that lies ahead.

As the day slows down and turns into evening, we encourage you to indulge your taste buds at one of the top-rated restaurants in Barcelona. After a delicious dinner, experience the local nightlife or unwind at one of the city’s most popular bars.

Make a reservation at Paradiso, a popular dining spot in Barcelona. Its reputation for being a popular dining spot shines through its 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 3,403 satisfied diners.

Make a reservation at CocoVail Beer Hall - Craft Beer Barcelona while indulging in the charm of Barcelona. This restaurant offers a delicious menu reflected with a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, cherished by 3,235 discerning connoisseurs.

Indulge in the flavors of Disfrutar, a treasured establishment in Barcelona. Its diverse menu promises to tantalize your palate and elevate your dining experience. Known for its exceptional service, it has earned a 4.8 out of 5-star rating from 2,164 satisfied guests.

Order some of the best-tasting cocktails and celebrate the night away at Bobby's Free. This famous bar in Barcelona has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,003 customers.

You can also check out an equally popular bar in the area, Restaurant El Foro. This amazing place never disappoints with its variety of drinks and fantastic ambiance. Restaurant El Foro has received an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 2,552 customers.

If you want to visit another bar, we recommend Dr Stravinsky. This bar offers guests many choices of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages to pair with a great night, helping it earn an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,837 customers.

Celebrate day 8 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 9 you have reached the last destination of your European road trip. Catch one last glimpse of Barcelona before it’s time to leave.

Depending on how much time you have before your departure, you may want to engage in some last-minute shopping or souvenir hunting. Get some unique items to remind you of your great European road trip across Spain, France, and Switzerland. If shopping isn’t your thing, visit some of the lesser-known attractions you have yet to discover.

As your final day in Spain unfolds, don’t miss the chance for a last-minute shopping spree in Barcelona’s shopping district. Your accommodation’s convenient location near the city’s shopping area offers the luxury of time, so you don’t have to limit yourself from leisurely strolling its streets amidst a collection of establishments.

Look for the perfect gift for your loved ones back home, or buy yourself a little keepsake to remind you of Spain.

Arc de Triomf is a travelers’ favorite in Barcelona, and today you’ll have the opportunity to discover it too! This one-of-a-kind attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 77,887 visitors.

Get a last taste of Spain’s tasty traditional food. Choose from a curated list of the best local food and drink spots in Barcelona and enjoy what may be your last vacation meal of this trip. Look forward to recreating these distinct culinary experiences in your own kitchen later to remind you of your unforgettable road trip across Spain, France, and Switzerland.

The time has come to say farewell to Barcelona for now. You will realize that you’re traveling home with more than you came with as you look back at your 9-day European road trip in Spain, France, and Switzerland with fond memories. Safe travels!