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

Your unforgettable multi-country road trip in Switzerland, France, and Spain 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 1 night.

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.

Find your way to your hotel in Zurich. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Switzerland. Settle in and make plans for the evening.

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

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.

If you’re in the mood for a drink, visit Tibits, one of the top bars in the city. An excellent place to unwind and enjoy a refreshing evening drink, Tibits has earned an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,746 customers.

Alternatively, you could enjoy a toast with locals and other travelers at Kennedy's Irish Pub, a crowd-favorite. Around 2,395 customers have rated their experience at Kennedy's Irish Pub an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars.

El Lokal belongs to the list of the best bars in Zurich, and its ratings and reviews are proof of this claim. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,127 bar-goers.

Your multi-country road trip in Switzerland, France, and Spain 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.

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 2 stops. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Zurich in Switzerland. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Geneva, your home for 1 night.

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Zurich is the fantastic Swiss National Museum. As an appreciated organization and local gem in the area, Swiss National Museum has earned an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 8,085 reviews.

Next up on your agenda, you will find the extraordinary Grossmünster. This attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 8,297 visitors, so don't miss the opportunity to experience it for yourself!

Join countless others in discovering the allure of Zürich Zoo, a standout zoo and attraction that's captivated the hearts of many. It has a stellar rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 26,267 reviewers.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Geneva. This car ride takes around 3 hours 20 min.

When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

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

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Geneva’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 Spain.

Discover an unparalleled culinary experience at Tosca, a restaurant perfect to visit if you’re craving culinary excellence. This 1-star Michelin restaurant has a diverse and enticing menu selection, which includes its delicious and signature tuscan meals.

Indulge in the exquisite flavors at a 2-star Michelin restaurant in Geneva, L'Atelier Robuchon. 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 french contemporary dishes, which are sure to tickle your taste buds.

Another culinary gem in Geneva you shouldn’t miss is Il Lago. Enjoy a menu that has earned it a prestigious 1-star Michelin rating. Delivering a food experience like no other, this restaurant’s italian and mediterranean 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 Beau-Rivage Genève. This bar is among the most recommended in the city, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,169 customers.

Embrace relaxation as you toast to a fantastic night at Demi Lune Café. This popular bar in Geneva is a local favorite with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 968 customers.

If you want to check out another bar in the area, you’ll love Le Kraken. This bar is known for its many choices of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. Le Kraken has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 898 reviews.

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

A tour of Geneva is not complete without a visit to the famous Jardin Anglais. This incredible urban park and attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 18,129 travelers.

After soaking in Geneva’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Avignon, France. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 3 hours 45 min. When you arrive in Avignon, it's time to take a break from the road.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Avignon, including the outstanding Jardin des doms. Having an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 3,201 reviews, this fascinating urban park and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.

Avignon is also home to the captivating Palais des Papes, a local palace considered one of the highlights of the city. About 36,931 visitors have rated this incredible site with 4.5 out of 5 stars, proving its popularity. Each year, up to 616,210 people include this sightseeing spot in their travel itineraries.

The extraordinary Pont Saint-Benezet (Le Pont d'Avignon) is another unforgettable place you can visit on this leg of your journey in Avignon. This extraordinary sightseeing destination and tourist hot spot boasts a rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 17,658 travelers.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Avignon, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Nimes may take around 48 min. Upon your arrival in Nimes, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Geneva today.

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

If you're eager to sample culinary delights during your multi-country road trip in Switzerland, France, and Spain, 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.

Book a table at The Bird, a famous dining establishment in Nimes. This culinary hotspot and its appetizing cuisine have captured the hearts of food enthusiasts. Its reputation for food excellence is reflected in its 4.8 out of 5-star rating from 659 satisfied diners.

Another dining place you should visit in Nimes is Restaurant Skab, which boasts a variety of tasteful dishes that cater to different palates. It has earned a commendable 4.7 out of 5 stars, demonstrating the positive feedback from 591 satisfied customers.

Locals and visitors alike recommend Nimes’s Le Dé-K-Lé Bistrot Gourmand for the delightful dining experience it gives. The establishment has garnered positive reviews for its tasty dishes, holding an admirable score of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,576 satisfied diners.

Quench your thirst after a long day of adventure at O’Flaherty’s, a prime hotspot for fun and relaxation seekers in the city. O’Flaherty’s boasts an impressive 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 1,377 customers.

Or, try the exciting drinks at Restaurant Au Flan Coco Nimes, a vibrant place where locals and travelers converge for spirited toasts and amazing stories. Restaurant Au Flan Coco Nimes has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 993 customers.

As the sun dips below the horizon, make a stop at another famous bar in the area, Le Questel. This bar is a local favorite, with an impressive rating of 4.6 out of 5-star from 993 customers.

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!

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Switzerland, France, and Spain. Today's main destinations are Nimes in France and Figueres in Spain, 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 Barcelona. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Something that makes Nimes the perfect holiday destination is that the city offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding museum, Musée de la Romanité. This local gem has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,534 visitors and gets around 25,271 visits every year.

The famous Jardin de La Fontaine is another remarkable sightseeing hotspot in the area. As one of Nimes's most remarkable sights, there's no wonder why around 15,878 travelers have rated this incredible park and travel destination an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in reviews.

When you’ve had your share of Nimes, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Figueres, Spain. Your travel time is around 2 hours 33 min.

Barcelona’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Figueres behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 42 min. Barcelona welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

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.

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

Take some time off from the road, it’s time to check in at a top-rated stay in Barcelona. Choose a hotel where you can gently let go of the day’s excitement and enjoy some peace and relaxation.

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.

Do not miss out on an incredible dining experience at Lasarte, one of the finest Bib Gourmand restaurants in Barcelona, boasting 3 Michelin stars. Featuring delightful food options and creative offerings, Lasarte has garnered acclaim from numerous satisfied diners.

For local recommendations, look no further than ABaC. This food haven in Barcelona has been awarded 3 Michelin stars. Featuring creative cuisine, this well-loved Bib Gourmand restaurant stands out as a favorite among local and international customers.

In the mood for something different? Consider reserving a table at Cocina Hermanos Torres. This celebrated dining spot in Barcelona is renowned for its sumptuous meals and creative menu. Countless patrons sing this Bib Gourmand restaurant's praises, adding to its 3 Michelin-star prestige.

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.

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!

Wake up and see what day 5 of your great European road trip in Switzerland, France, and Spain has in store for you! You will be staying in Barcelona for 1 night before continuing your journey to the next destination.

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.

Reserve a table at El Nacional, a renowned restaurant in Barcelona. This culinary gem and its flavorful dishes have captured the hearts of food enthusiasts. Its reputation is reflected in its 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 23,496 guests.

Ensure you experience culinary excellence at El Bosc de Les Fades while in Barcelona. This dining establishment presents an exquisite menu that has received a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, acclaimed by 14,606 discerning diners.

Experience a taste of Barcelona at Ciutat Comtal, 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 12,951 customers.

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 5 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 6 of your multi-country journey across Switzerland, France, and Spain. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Barcelona in Spain and Montpellier in France. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Montpellier where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.

One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable Mercado de La Boqueria. This outstanding point of interest and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year. Garnering an average rating of 4.5 stars out of 5 from 160,835 travelers, a visit to the remarkable Mercado de La Boqueria is worth pages in your travel diary.

The fascinating Plaça de Catalunya is another of the city's top attractions that will stir your curiosity. This square and tourist destination boasts an average review score of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 175,036 travelers.

This day is also your chance to see the amazing triumphal arch, Arc de Triomf. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 77,887 travelers, a trip to this wonderful site promises a memorable experience.

The top-rated Parc de la Ciutadella, an outstanding point of interest, is one place you should visit while in Barcelona considering its average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 68,100 travelers.

Set your GPS to Montpellier, France and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 3 hours 42 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Montpellier beckons with new experiences!

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Barcelona today.

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

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Barcelona today.

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

As the sun sets on day 6 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Montpellier's top restaurants and eateries, each offering a local taste of France 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, Montpellier has them.

Make a reservation at Coldrip food and coffee, a popular dining spot in Montpellier. Its reputation for being a popular dining spot shines through its 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 644 satisfied diners.

Make a reservation at Empanadas Club while indulging in the charm of Montpellier. This restaurant offers a delicious menu reflected with a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars, cherished by 1,371 discerning connoisseurs.

Indulge in the flavors of Fitzpatrick's Irish Pub, a treasured establishment in Montpellier. Its diverse menu promises to tantalize your palate and elevate your dining experience. Known for its exceptional service, it has earned a 4.3 out of 5-star rating from 1,623 satisfied guests.

Wrap up your evening by visiting the renowned Les Enfants Rouges, a must-visit hotspot in the city of Montpellier. This bar has garnered an impressive average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, backed by 1,050 delighted customers.

Alternatively, quench your thirst at the popular O'Carolans Irish Pub, consistently rated 4.3 out of 5 stars in reviews.

Or, for an authentic local recommendation, head over to The Shakespeare, one of the top-rated bars in Montpellier, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 903 satisfied customers.

Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in Switzerland, France, and Spain! Enjoy your evening in Montpellier to the fullest by mingling with the locals at a bar, taking a stroll around the city center, or simply just relaxing.

On day 7 of your multi-country road trip across Switzerland, France, and Spain, 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 Montpellier in France. In the evening, you’ll end up in Grenoble, where you will stay for 1 night.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Montpellier, including the outstanding Comedy Square. Having an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 11,883 reviews, this fascinating square and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.

Montpellier is also home to the captivating esplanade Charles de Gaulle, a local square considered one of the highlights of the city. About 8,915 visitors have rated this incredible site with 4.3 out of 5 stars, proving its popularity.

The extraordinary Fabre museum is another unforgettable place you can visit on this leg of your journey in Montpellier. This extraordinary art museum and tourist hot spot hosts more than 253,041 visitors annually and boasts a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 3,372 travelers.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Grenoble. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 2 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

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

By dinnertime, you’ll be ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy the lively vibes in central Grenoble. 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 Spain.

Make sure to reserve a table at Restaurant La Petite Idée, an iconic dining spot in Grenoble. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Its dedication to culinary innovation is evident in its 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 804 satisfied guests.

Don't miss the opportunity to enjoy culinary excellence at Pizzeria Come Prima while in Grenoble. This renowned dining destination showcases an exquisite menu, distinguished with an exceptional rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, treasured by 2,055 previous guests.

Delight in the culinary creations of La Ferme à Dédé, a favorite in Grenoble. Its innovative menu offers a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. With a reputation for excellence, it has earned a 4.3 out of 5-star rating from 2,169 discerning guests.

Order some of the best-tasting cocktails and celebrate the night away at L'Ardoise. This famous bar in Grenoble has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,127 customers.

You can also check out an equally popular bar in the area, le coq hardi. This amazing place never disappoints with its variety of drinks and fantastic ambiance. Le coq hardi has received an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 991 customers.

If you want to visit another bar, we recommend Pub Shakesbeer. 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 4.3 out of 5 stars from 850 customers.

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 8 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 2 stops. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Bern in Switzerland. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Zurich, your home for 1 night.

Bern’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Grenoble behind. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 10 min. Bern welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

A tour of Bern is not complete without a visit to the famous UNESCO - Bern Old Town. This incredible sightseeing destination and attraction has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 4,755 travelers.

Make the most of your Bern travel adventure by seeing another popular site, the wonderful bear pit. This architectural structure and unique destination is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 13,960 travelers.

You can then move on to the incredible Rose Garden Bern for an experience worth remembering. This local architectural structure and standout destination has received an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 4,381 visitors.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Bern and set your GPS to Zurich. 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 1 hour 31 min. Upon reaching Zurich, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

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

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.

Have a delightful culinary experience when you dine at Babu's. Favored by many foreign travelers and locals, this restaurant in Zurich boasts a carefully curated and enticing menu. Its delectable dishes have earned it an impressive rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from around 2,949 visitors.

Another dining spot you shouldn’t miss while in Zurich is Kronenhalle. It has garnered a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,764 diners thanks to its impeccable menu options and flavors.

Experience a celebration of flavors when you dine in at Markthalle, in Zurich. Its delightful menu and flavorful dishes have earned it a stellar rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 1,771 satisfied customers.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Zurich. At Rimini Bar, you can enjoy a mix of fun and relaxation. This bar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,417 customers.

Alternatively, unwind and relive your best memories of this day of your adventure at Café Bar ODEON, another popular bar in the city. Customers have rated this fantastic bar an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 1,374 reviews.

Oliver Twist is also one of the best places in Zurich where you can let loose and enjoy some celebratory drinks. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,495 customers.

As the night falls in Zurich, 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 9 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 Spain. If shopping isn’t your thing, visit some of the lesser-known attractions you have yet to discover.

On your last day in Switzerland, take time to indulge in shopping at Zurich’s popular marketplace. Thanks to your accommodation’s strategic location, 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.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Zurich today.

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 Spain.

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 9-day European road trip in Switzerland, France, and Spain with fond memories. Safe travels!