One-Week Road Trip to Switzerland, France, and Italy

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

Catch an early flight to Switzerland to enjoy as much time as possible exploring Zurich 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.

Something that makes Zurich the perfect holiday destination is that the city offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding square, Lindenhof. This local gem has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 11,365 visitors.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Zurich. 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.

By dinnertime, you’ll be ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy lively vibes in central Zurich. From mouthwatering restaurants to happening bars, we've got the inside scoop on where to eat and drink at this stop on your multi-country road trip across Switzerland, France, and Italy.

Make sure to book a table at Widder Restaurant, a 2 Michelin star restaurant and a Bib Gourmand dining venue in Zurich. This local gem’s delectable modern french and contemporary cuisine is sure to leave a lasting impression. Widder Restaurant is highly regarded in the culinary world and boasts an impressive track record of satisfied customers.

Treat yourself to culinary excellence at IGNIV Zürich by Andreas Caminada, offering a Bib-Gourmand awarded dining experience. With its 2 Michelin star rating, it caters to the most discerning palates. The incredible sharing and modern cuisine at IGNIV Zürich by Andreas Caminada has earned praise globally.

If you're in the mood for something different, consider reserving a table at The Restaurant. This celebrated dining spot in Zurich is renowned for its sumptuous meals and creative and modern menu. Countless patrons sing this Bib Gourmand restaurant's praises, adding to its 2 Michelin-star prestige.

Spend the night with your favorite cocktail in hand at Tibits. This bar is among the most recommended in the city, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,746 customers.

Embrace relaxation as you toast to a fantastic night at Kennedy's Irish Pub. This popular bar in Zurich is a local favorite with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 2,395 customers.

If you want to check out another bar in the area, you’ll love El Lokal. This bar is known for its many choices of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. El Lokal has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,127 reviews.

Your multi-country road trip in Switzerland, France, and Italy 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 Switzerland, France, and Italy has in store for you! You will be staying in Zurich for 1 night before continuing your journey to the next destination.

One place travelers keep coming back to in Zurich is the magnificent Zürich Zoo. Around 26,267 visitors have rated this excellent zoo and travel destination an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

We also recommend you explore the amazing Kunsthaus Zürich on this leg of your adventure in Switzerland. This attraction is a well-known art museum that has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from around 6,594 travelers. Given this incredible site's popularity, it’s easy to understand why more than 382,603 people visit it every year.

The remarkable Grossmünster is known to be one of the best places to visit in Zurich, and its average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 8,297 traveler reviews is proof.

Dive deeper into Zurich by exploring the captivating Zürich Opera House. With a stellar average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 6,213 travelers, make sure this wonderful site is on your Zurich exploration list!

If you're eager to sample culinary delights during your multi-country road trip in Switzerland, France, and Italy, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Zurich. 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 Babu's, a popular local restaurant in Zurich. 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 2,949 satisfied guests.

Make it a priority to experience Kronenhalle during your stay in Zurich. This popular local restaurant offers an unparalleled menu, with a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, by 1,764 discerning guests.

Explore the culinary wonders of Markthalle, a popular local gem in Zurich. Its enticing menu promises a journey through flavors that will leave a lasting impression. Renowned for its impeccable service, it boasts a 4.3 out of 5-star rating from 1,771 satisfied guests.

For a sip of relaxation, head over to Rimini Bar, a top-notch spot in the city scene. Whether you're unwinding solo or with pals, Rimini Bar has charmed many with its 4.5 out of 5-star rating, as attested by 1,417 happy guests.

Or, join the buzz at Café Bar ODEON, where locals and fellow explorers gather for good times and good chats. Café Bar ODEON captures hearts with its 4.5 out of 5-star rating, drawing acclaim from 1,374 merry-makers.

And don't miss out on Oliver Twist, another local party gem in Zurich. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,495 reviews, highlighting its charm and popularity in the area.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 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 Strasbourg in France and Neuhausen in Switzerland. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Strasbourg. Strasbourg will be your home 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.

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

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

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 Switzerland, France, and Italy by rewarding yourself with a taste of Strasbourg’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.

Plan ahead and secure a table at Au Crocodile, an acclaimed dining establishment in Strasbourg. This restaurant and its exquisite cuisine have earned the admiration of diners far and wide. Its commitment to culinary excellence shines through its 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 770 satisfied guests.

Do not overlook the culinary excellence of La Fignette while experiencing the best of Strasbourg. This renowned restaurant presents a refined menu, distinguished with an exceptional rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, celebrated by 3,684 discerning diners.

Indulge in the rich flavors of Restaurant Gurtlerhoft, an elegant culinary destination in Strasbourg. A menu crafted to perfection guarantees a dining experience that will satisfy even the most discerning palate. Its stellar reputation is reflected in its 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 2,531 previous guests.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Strasbourg. At Cathedral Beer Academy, you can enjoy a mix of fun and relaxation. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,358 customers.

Alternatively, unwind and relive your best memories of this day of your adventure at Les BerThoM Strasbourg, another popular bar in the city. Customers have rated this fantastic bar an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 1,862 reviews.

Le Grincheux is also one of the best places in Strasbourg where you can let loose and enjoy some celebratory drinks. This bar has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,261 customers.

Celebrate day 3 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your multi-country journey across Switzerland, France, and Italy. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 5 vibrant destinations - Gerstheim in France and Basel 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 Basel. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

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

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Basel’s regional flavors and culminate your day with a toast. We’ve curated a guide to the city’s culinary and nightlife hotspots to enhance your experience during your multi-country vacation in Switzerland, France, and Italy.

Cheval Blanc by Peter Knogl is the Bib Gourmand restaurant to visit if you’re craving culinary excellence. This 3-star Michelin restaurant has a diverse and enticing menu selection, which includes its delicious and signature classic french meals.

Elevate your dining experience at a 2-star Michelin restaurant in Basel, roots. At this Bib Gourmand awardee, savor a combination of exceptional flavors with a memorable dining experience. This renowned restaurant’s meal selection includes its signature modern and seasonal dishes, which are sure to tickle your taste buds.

Another culinary gem in Basel you shouldn’t miss is Stucki - Tanja Grandits. Enjoy a menu that has earned it a prestigious 2-star Michelin rating. Delivering a food experience like no other, this Bib Gourmand restaurant’s creative and modern menu and exceptional service make it a must-visit destination for those seeking exceptional dining in the area.

Spend the night with your favorite cocktail in hand at KLARA 13 AG. This bar is among the most recommended in the city, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,460 customers.

Embrace relaxation as you toast to a fantastic night at HANS IM GLÜCK - BASEL Steinenvorstadt. This popular bar in Basel is a local favorite with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,144 customers.

If you want to check out another bar in the area, you’ll love Flanagan's. This bar is known for its many choices of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. Flanagan's has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 1,232 reviews.

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

On day 5 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Switzerland, France, and Italy, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Lucerne in Switzerland and Monza in Italy. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Milan, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Lucerne today.

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.

When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

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

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

As the sun sets on day 5 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Milan's top restaurants and eateries, each offering a local taste of Italy to remember your trip by. After a fulfilling dinner, dive into the city’s local nightlife. Whether you prefer the bustling energy of popular pubs or want to take in the ambiance of a quiet bar, Milan has them.

Discover an unparalleled culinary experience at Enrico Bartolini al Mudec, a Bib Gourmand restaurant perfect to visit if you’re craving culinary excellence. This 3-star Michelin restaurant has a diverse and enticing menu selection, which includes its delicious and signature creative meals.

Indulge in the exquisite flavors at a 2-star Michelin restaurant in Milan, Seta by Antonio Guida. At this Bib Gourmand awardee, savor a combination of exceptional flavors with a memorable dining experience. This renowned restaurant’s meal selection includes its signature international and contemporary dishes, which are sure to tickle your taste buds.

Another culinary gem in Milan you shouldn’t miss is Il Luogo Aimo e Nadia. Enjoy a menu that has earned it a prestigious 1-star Michelin rating. Delivering a food experience like no other, this Bib Gourmand restaurant’s italian contemporary and modern menu and exceptional service make it a must-visit destination for those seeking exceptional dining in the area.

If you’re in the mood for a drink, visit Mag Cafe, one of the top bars in the city. An excellent place to unwind and enjoy a refreshing evening drink, Mag Cafe has earned an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 3,270 customers.

Alternatively, you could enjoy a toast with locals and other travelers at Nottingham Forest, a crowd-favorite. Around 2,686 customers have rated their experience at Nottingham Forest an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

The Friends Pub Milano belongs to the list of the best bars in Milan, and its ratings and reviews are proof of this claim. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,689 bar-goers.

As the night falls in Milan, 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.

On day 6, you will wake up in Milan with an entire day of wonders ahead of you! You still have 1 night left in Milan before it’s time to get back on the road and continue your European tour across Switzerland, France, and Italy.

Piazza Gae Aulenti is a travelers’ favorite in Milan, 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 30,398 visitors.

In Milan, don’t miss Arch of Peace, a great monument and place to see in the city. This outstanding attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 27,502 reviews.

Check other top attractions in Milan off your list when you visit the wonderful Parco Sempione. This popular sight is an outstanding park, rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 72,914 travelers.

Beyond the above-mentioned top sights, take the opportunity to visit the outstanding Sforzesco Castle Art Library. This library and place of interest has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 68,714 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, the fantastic Museo della Scienza e della Tecnologia "Leonardo da Vinci" awaits. This technology museum is a tourist hot spot, garnering an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 22,235 visitors. The fantastic Museo della Scienza e della Tecnologia "Leonardo da Vinci" gets around 532,084 yearly visitors.

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Milan’s regional flavors and culminate your day with a toast. We’ve curated a guide to the city’s culinary and nightlife hotspots to enhance your experience during your multi-country vacation in Switzerland, France, and Italy.

Plan ahead and secure a table at Primè, an acclaimed dining establishment in Milan. This restaurant and its exquisite cuisine have earned the admiration of diners far and wide. Its commitment to culinary excellence shines through its 4.3 out of 5-star rating from 1,184 satisfied guests.

Do not overlook the culinary excellence of Contraste while experiencing the best of Milan. This renowned restaurant presents a refined menu, distinguished with an exceptional rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars, celebrated by 823 discerning diners.

Indulge in the rich flavors of Nero 9, an elegant culinary destination in Milan. A menu crafted to perfection guarantees a dining experience that will satisfy even the most discerning palate. Its stellar reputation is reflected in its 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 573 previous guests.

Spend the night with your favorite cocktail in hand at Kilburn Cocktail Bar Milano. This bar is among the most recommended in the city, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 954 customers.

Embrace relaxation as you toast to a fantastic night at BhangraBar. This popular bar in Milan is a local favorite with an average rating of 4 out of 5 stars from 4,036 customers.

If you want to check out another bar in the area, you’ll love Camparino in Galleria. This bar is known for its many choices of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. Camparino in Galleria has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,473 reviews.

Take in the ambiance of Milan 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!

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

Duomo di Milano Museum is a travelers’ favorite in Milan, and today you’ll have the opportunity to discover it too! This one-of-a-kind attraction is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 138,554 visitors. More than 341,609 people visit this extraordinary art museum and local gem every year to experience its uniqueness.

In Milan, don’t miss Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, a great commercial gallery and place to see in the city. This outstanding attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 91,394 reviews.

Check other top attractions in Milan off your list when you visit the wonderful La Scala. This popular sight is an outstanding opera house, rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 26,219 travelers.

Beyond the above-mentioned top sights, take the opportunity to visit the outstanding Pinacoteca di Brera. This art museum and place of interest has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 26,077 reviews. It’s estimated that around 417 people come to admire it every year.

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

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Milan today.

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

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

After an exciting day of sightseeing, it’s time to check in at your accommodation in Zurich. 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.

As the sun dips under the horizon, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Zurich. 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.

Reserve a table at Cantinetta Antinori, a renowned restaurant in Zurich. This culinary gem and its delectable cuisine have captured the hearts of food enthusiasts. Its reputation is reflected in its 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 1,379 guests.

Ensure you experience culinary excellence at Metropol while in Zurich. This dining establishment presents an exquisite menu that has received a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars, acclaimed by 1,341 discerning diners.

Many previous guests have raved about this restaurant.

Experience a taste of Zurich at Viadukt, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Its reputation is reflected in its 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 1,179 customers.

For a sip of relaxation, head over to La Stanza, a top-notch spot in the city scene. Whether you're unwinding solo or with pals, La Stanza has charmed many with its 4.5 out of 5-star rating, as attested by 1,083 happy guests.

Or, join the buzz at Kon-Tiki Coffeeshop & Bar, where locals and fellow explorers gather for good times and good chats. Kon-Tiki Coffeeshop & Bar captures hearts with its 4.5 out of 5-star rating, drawing acclaim from 870 merry-makers.

And don't miss out on Rio Bar, another local party gem in Zurich. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 992 reviews, highlighting its charm and popularity in the area.

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!

On day 8 you have reached the last destination of your European road trip. Catch one last glimpse of Zurich 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 Switzerland, France, and Italy. If shopping isn’t your thing, visit some of the lesser-known attractions you have yet to discover.

As you approach the end of your journey in Switzerland, take a moment for some retail therapy in Zurich’s celebrated shopping district. Thanks to your stay’s premier location, you can easily visit the city’s commercial hubs and wander through its diverse range of local shops without rushing.

Whether you’re on a hunt for an ideal present to give to your friends or family or looking for a personal memento to remind you of Switzerland, a variety of items are waiting for you.

One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable Paradeplatz. This outstanding square and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year. Garnering an average rating of 4.5 stars out of 5 from 1,209 travelers, a visit to the remarkable Paradeplatz is worth pages in your travel diary.

Get a last taste of Switzerland’s tasty traditional food. Choose from a curated list of the best local food and drink spots in Zurich 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 Switzerland, France, and Italy.

The time has come to say farewell to Zurich for now. You will realize that you’re traveling home with more than you came with as you look back at your 8-day European road trip in Switzerland, France, and Italy with fond memories. Safe travels!