One-Week Switzerland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bern to Interlaken and Lucerne

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Photo of city of Bern in Switzerland from above.
Photo of aerial view of the old city center of Bern, Switzerland.
One-Week Switzerland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bern to Interlaken and Lucerne
One-Week Switzerland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bern to Interlaken and Lucerne
One-Week Switzerland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bern to Interlaken and Lucerne
One-Week Switzerland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bern to Interlaken and Lucerne
One-Week Switzerland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bern to Interlaken and Lucerne
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Experience the freedom of the open road on an unforgettable 8-day road trip in Switzerland! Embark on a self-drive tour that caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Bern, Beatenberg, Interlaken, Mürren, Lauterbrunnen, Brienz (BE), Axalp, Schwanden bei Brienz, Lucerne, Pringy, Gruyères, and Broc.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary takes you through some of the best places to see in Switzerland. You will spend 3 nights in Bern, 2 nights in Interlaken, and 2 nights in Lucerne. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!

With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Switzerland. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have you covered.

Upon arriving in Bern, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Switzerland on your own terms.

An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Switzerland. Chapel Bridge and Lion Monument Lucerne are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.

As you hit the open road and drive through Bern, Beatenberg, Interlaken, Mürren, Lauterbrunnen, Brienz (BE), Axalp, Schwanden bei Brienz, Lucerne, Pringy, Gruyères, and Broc, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Switzerland. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Switzerland.

Throughout your road trip in Switzerland, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Switzerland.

This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodations, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.

The best services in Switzerland fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Switzerland today!

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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Pick-up: 10:00
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Day1

Day 1

  • Bern - Arrival day
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  • bear pit
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Welcome to Bern, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Switzerland! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 2 nights discovering what to see in Bern before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Bern is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Bear Pit. Taking a stroll in the city center is a great alternative. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Bern. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Switzerland. We recommend staying at a central location for easy access to key areas in the city.

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.

Dine in style at Brasserie Obstberg, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Süder boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Leichtsinn. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Bern.

Continue your lively evening at Zum Kuckuck, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Piazza Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Die Taube ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in Switzerland!

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Day2

Day 2

  • Bern
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Drive 4 km, 1 hour 2 min

  • Bernisches Historisches Museum / Einstein Museum
  • The Parliament Building
  • Bundesplatz
  • Zytglogge
  • UNESCO - Bern Old Town
  • Rosengarten Bern
  • More

Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Bern has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in the city and use the provided itinerary to discover what to see in Bern.

Start your day at Bernisches Historisches Museum / Einstein Museum. This eye-catching museum is a curiosity-inducing place to see in Bern. Then, wander over to Federal Palace Of Switzerland. If stunning sites excite you, this city hall will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Bundesplatz. This visually striking public square is a favorite among visitors.

Bern offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Zytglogge is a curiosity-inducing spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the historical landmark, don’t forget to check out the visually striking Unesco - Bern Old Town. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this up-and-coming historical landmark. Wrap up your self-guided tour of Bern's top attractions with a visit to Rose Garden Bern.

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.

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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Volver BarTapasCafé, a top-rated dining spot in Bern. If you're in the mood for something new, try Gourmanderie Moléson, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at McCarthy's Irish Pub Bern. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Bern.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Ebrietas Bern, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Adrianos Bar & Café is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Les Amis / Wohnzimmer also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Switzerland.

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Day3

Day 3

  • Bern
  • Beatenberg
  • Interlaken
  • More

Drive 84 km, 1 hour 55 min

  • Lake Thun
  • St. Beatus Caves
  • Harderkulm
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in Switzerland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 places, which are Beatenberg and Harderkulm. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Interlaken, where will spend 2 nights.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the village's best attractions, visit Lake Thun, a beloved lake that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

After soaking in Beatenberg’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Harderkulm. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 27 min. When you arrive in Harderkulm, it's time to take a break from the road.

St. Beatus-höhlen, Swiss Caves is an up-and-coming cave system we recommend visiting today. Discover its instagrammable features before continuing your self-guided tour.

After soaking in Beatenberg’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Harderkulm. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 27 min. When you arrive in Harderkulm, it's time to take a break from the road.

Our first attraction recommendation in Harderkulm is Harderkulm, a frequently visited observation deck that draws attention for its serene features.

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

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

Dine in style at Coop Restaurant Interlaken Ost, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Taj Palace boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out OX Restaurant & Grill. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Interlaken.

Keep the evening going at Brasserie 17, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink.

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

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Day4

Day 4

  • Interlaken
  • Mürren
  • Lauterbrunnen
  • More

Drive 32 km, 57 min

  • Trümmelbach Falls
  • Staubbach Falls
  • Wengernalpbahn
  • More

Wake up to day 4 of your road trip in Switzerland. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Mürren and Lauterbrunnen. With 1 night to stay in Interlaken, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the town’s surroundings!

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

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Trümmelbach Falls. Spend some time admiring the romantic features of the waterfall before you continue to your next stop.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Lauterbrunnen. This car ride takes around 6 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Staubbachfall Waterfall, a curiosity-inducing waterfall that everyone visiting Lauterbrunnen should see. Next, head to Wengernalpbahn. This romantic heritage railway is one of the most locally appreciated attractions in the region.

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

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Pizzeria Horn, a top-rated dining spot in Interlaken. If you're in the mood for something new, try Indian Tandoori, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Chalet Beizli. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Interlaken.

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

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Day5

Day 5

  • Interlaken
  • Brienz
  • Axalp
  • Hofstetten
  • Lucerne
  • More

Drive 84 km, 1 hour 48 min

  • Brunngasse Brienz
  • Giessbach Waterfalls
  • Ballenberg, Swiss Open-Air Museum
  • More

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Switzerland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 4 destinations, including Brienz (BE), Axalp, Schwanden bei Brienz, and Lucerne. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Lucerne, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Brienz (BE) may take around 22 min. Upon your arrival in Brienz (BE), you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Spend your afternoon discovering Brunngasse Brienz, an increasingly popular street known for its history-steeped features.

When you’ve had your share of Brienz (BE), prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Axalp. Your travel time is around 13 min.

Our first attraction recommendation in Axalp is Giessbach Waterfalls, an intriguing waterfall that draws attention for its romantic features.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Schwanden bei Brienz, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Axalp to Schwanden bei Brienz may take around 11 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Schwanden bei Brienz, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Ballenberg, Swiss Open-air Museum. Spend some time admiring the breathtaking features of the museum before you continue to your next stop.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Lucerne. Lucerne 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 Lucerne, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Savor the flavors at Valentino, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Restaurant Weisses Schloss beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Bolero. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Lucerne tonight.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Bar 58, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Blue Bar & Smokers Lounge, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Penthouse provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

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Day6

Day 6

  • Lucerne
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Drive 29 km, 1 hour 9 min

  • Swiss Museum of Transport
  • Lion Monument Lucerne
  • Hofkirche St. Leodegar
  • More

On day 6 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to discover what to see in Lucerne. You’ll stay in Lucerne for 1 night.

Whether you decide to explore Lucerne on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss.

Swiss Museum Of Transport is perfect for a self-paced visit during the day. This eye-catching museum is sure to impress. Next on your list is Lion Monument Lucerne, another must-visit landmark and popular monument renowned for its picture-perfect features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Lucerne by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Church Of St. Leodegar. This romantic church is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Lucerne experience.

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

Dine in style at Ampersand, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Mr. Pickwick Pub Luzern boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Made in Sud Italienisches Restaurant Luzern. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Lucerne.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Switzerland!

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Day7

Day 7

  • Lucerne
  • Pringy
  • Gruyères
  • Broc
  • Bern
  • More

Drive 245 km, 3 hours 21 min

  • La Maison du Gruyère
  • HR Giger Museum
  • Castle of the counts of Gruyères
  • Gorges de la Jogne
  • More

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in Switzerland. Today you'll explore 3 destinations, including Pringy, Gruyères, and Broc. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Bern, where you'll spend 1 night.

Pringy’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Lucerne behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 50 min. Pringy welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at La Maison Du Gruyère and explore the respected features.

Set your GPS to Broc and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 17 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Broc beckons with new experiences!

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Hr Giger Museum. Spend some time admiring the photogenic features of the museum before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Château De Gruyères. This interesting castle is a traveler-favorite in the village.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Broc. This drive usually takes around 17 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the village's best attractions, visit Gorges De La Jogne, an often recommended canyon that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Rösterei Kaffee und Bar, a top-rated dining destination in Bern. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Kesar, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Aarbergerhof. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bern this evening.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Attika Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Switzerland!

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Day8

Day 8

  • Bern - Departure day
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  • Matte
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Day 8 of your road trip in Switzerland is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Bern before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

At the top of the list of places to visit today is Matte, a neighborhood that captures the true essence of Bern. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.

Make the most of your final day in Switzerland by visiting Bern’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing Bern's Old City. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing vacation. You can also browse through boutiques for stylish fashion choices.

Before you conclude your road trip in Switzerland, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Bern.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Hotel Bellevue Palace, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Restaurants Terrasse offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Bern. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in Switzerland!

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Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.
Secure your spot
Confirm your package instantly and lock in the best rate with secure payment and guaranteed availability.
Get instant confirmation
Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.

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Your trip is protected, personalized, and priced right. No surprises, no stress.

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