12-Day Switzerland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Zurich to Lucerne, Interlaken, Montreux, Lausanne, and Bern

Day 2 of your road trip across Switzerland promises a magnificent time exploring what to see in Zurich. You have 1 night left in Zurich. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

At the top of the list of things to do today is to explore Old Town (Altstadt), a neighborhood that captures the true essence of Zurich. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.

No visit to Zurich is complete without Zürich Zoo. This interesting zoo is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Kunsthaus Zürich, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Zurich, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Swiss National Museum. This beloved museum is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Lindenhof, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Switzerland. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Zurich. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

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.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Eldorado, known for its lively atmosphere. Gotthard Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, La Stanza offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Switzerland!

Your itinerary for day 3 of your road trip in Switzerland includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Lucerne. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Lucerne, where you'll spend 1 night.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Mount Pilatus, a frequently visited mountain range that everyone visiting Lucerne should see.

Lucerne welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Church Of St. Leodegar, a curiosity-inducing church that everyone visiting Lucerne should see. Next, head to Lion Monument Lucerne. This picture-perfect monument is one of the most popular attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Spreuer Bridge, Lucerne, a visually striking historical landmark popular among locals as well as travelers. Chapel Bridge is an excellent attraction to visit next. Spend some time learning more about this popular historical landmark before you continue your journey.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Lucerne, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Lucerne. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Valentino, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Restaurant Weisses Schloss? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Bolero as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Lucerne.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Bar 58, known for its inviting atmosphere. Blue Bar & Smokers Lounge is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Penthouse provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

As the sun sets, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Switzerland.

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Switzerland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, including Montreux. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Montreux, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Montreux. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 39 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Montreux Museum. Spend some time admiring the respected features of the museum before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Golden Pass Railway. This increasingly popular heritage railway is a traveler-favorite in the town.

If you're keen to see more, continue to Promenade Sur Les Quais De Montreux. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the boardwalk. Next, take your journey to Freddie Mercury Statue, an underrated monument.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Montreux. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the town.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Montreux's best restaurants.

Make sure to reserve a table at MONTREUX JAZZ CAFE, an iconic dining spot in Montreux. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of La Corsa Al Cilento, a popular restaurant in Montreux. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Rando Burger Restaurant, a hidden gem nestled in Montreux. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Riva Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Funky Claude's Bar, a bar that offers unique local touches.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 7 of your road trip, you'll get the chance to experience Lausanne and Vevey. At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Montreux, where you still have 1 night left to stay.

After soaking in Montreux’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Lausanne. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 22 min. When you arrive in Lausanne, it's time to take a break from the road.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Aquatis Aquarium-vivarium, a locally appreciated aquarium in Lausanne. Explore its photogenic features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Vevey, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Lausanne to Vevey may take around 23 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Vevey, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Spend your afternoon discovering Jardin Doret, a beloved park known for its eye-catching features.

Spend your afternoon discovering Chillon Castle, a notable castle known for its history-steeped features.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Montreux.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Montreux, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Beijing Town, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Huit sushi restaurant is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Bis. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Montreux tonight.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Switzerland!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 8 of your road trip in Switzerland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 place, which are Lausanne. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Lausanne, where will spend 1 night.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Lausanne may take around 28 min. Upon your arrival in Lausanne, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Parc Animalier De Sauvabelin and explore the enchanting features. Next, make your way to Sauvabelin Tower, another highlight in Lausanne. When you’re done exploring the observation deck, continue to The Olympic Museum, an instagrammable museum.

Nearby, you will also find Collection De L'art Brut. This beloved art gallery is a top place to see in the area. Lastly, head to Lausanne Cathedral, a history-steeped church that is perfect for some final exploring in the city.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Lausanne, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

Lausanne is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Lausanne.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Poesia, a top-rated dining destination in Lausanne. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Café Saint Pierre, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Lausanne Cocktail Club - LCC. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Lausanne this evening.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Captain Cook Pub, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, King Size Pub offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Lausanne. Pin Up Bar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Switzerland!

Dive into day 9 of your remarkable road trip in Switzerland. Today you'll explore 1 destination, including Bern. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Bern, where you'll spend 2 nights.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Lausanne and set your GPS to Bern. 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 15 min. Upon reaching Bern, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Bernisches Historisches Museum / Einstein Museum, an increasingly popular museum in Bern. Explore its history-steeped features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Bear Pit. This locally renowned zoo is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, Rose Garden Bern is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most mesmerizing botanical garden in the region. Next, continue your sightseeing at the often recommended Nydeggbrücke and discover what makes this monument unique. If you’re up for one more stop in the city, head to Nydeggkirche, a picture-perfect church many travelers find the visit worthwhile.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Bern. Bern offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Bern, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Brasserie Obstberg, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Süder offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Leichtsinn. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Bern.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Zum Kuckuck, known for its lively atmosphere. Piazza Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Die Taube offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Say good night to Bern and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Switzerland!

Wake up to day 10 of your road trip in Switzerland. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Köniz and Bern. With 1 night to stay in Bern, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Make a stop at Federal Palace Of Switzerland. This underrated city hall is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Bundesplatz located in Bern for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Zytglogge. Its respected features will captivate you. After the historical landmark, continue your tour of the town with a visit to Einstein House. Visitors usually appreciate the standout features of this museum. Next up is Unesco - Bern Old Town, a highly recommended historical landmark.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Bern and set your GPS to Köniz. 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 19 min. Upon reaching Köniz, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Gurten and explore the majestic features.

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

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Bern. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Make sure to reserve a table at Volver BarTapasCafé, an iconic dining spot in Bern. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Gourmanderie Moléson, a popular restaurant in Bern. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of McCarthy's Irish Pub Bern, a hidden gem nestled in Bern. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Ebrietas Bern, known for its inviting atmosphere. Adrianos Bar & Café is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Les Amis / Wohnzimmer provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!