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

Your itinerary for day 2 of your road trip in Switzerland includes 2 stops and features some of the highlights of Bern and Thun. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Interlaken, where you'll spend 2 nights.

Bundesplatz is must-visit public square and a great option for a daytime tour of the area. Continue your journey to Bear Pit, a notable zoo, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Rose Garden Bern, an eye-catching botanical garden, also available for your discovery today.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Thun. This drive usually takes around 25 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Thun Castle and explore the romantic 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.

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 Interlaken, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Coop Restaurant Interlaken Ost, a top-rated dining destination in Interlaken. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Taj Palace, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at OX Restaurant & Grill. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Interlaken this evening.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Brasserie 17, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 3 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Interlaken, where you still have 1 night left. You'll spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate town, including Fürgangen, Lauterbrunnen, and Mürren.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Interlaken and set your GPS to Fürgangen. 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 3 hours 17 min. Upon reaching Fürgangen, 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 Goms Bridge (hängebrücke Fürgangen - Mühlebach) and explore the picturesque features.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Lauterbrunnen. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 25 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

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

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Lauterbrunnen and set your GPS to Mürren. 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 5 min. Upon reaching Mürren, 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 Trümmelbach Falls and explore the romantic features.

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

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.

Dine in style at Pizzeria Horn, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Indian Tandoori boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Chalet Beizli. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Interlaken.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in Switzerland.

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

Lucerne’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Interlaken behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 7 min. 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 Spreuer Bridge, Lucerne, an increasingly popular historical landmark that everyone visiting Lucerne should see. Next, head to Lion Monument Lucerne. This breathtaking monument is one of the most well-known attractions in the region.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Schwanden bei Brienz may take around 55 min. Upon your arrival in Schwanden bei Brienz, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Ballenberg, Swiss Open-air Museum is an intriguing museum we recommend visiting today. Discover its historic features before continuing your self-guided tour.

After soaking in Schwanden bei Brienz’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Brienz (BE). Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 8 min. When you arrive in Brienz (BE), it's time to take a break from the road.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Brunngasse Brienz, a frequently visited street that everyone visiting Brienz (BE) should see.

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.

Lucerne 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 Lucerne.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Valentino, a popular restaurant in Lucerne. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Lucerne at Restaurant Weisses Schloss, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Bolero. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Lucerne tonight.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Bar 58 stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Blue Bar & Smokers Lounge offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Penthouse is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

Day 5 of your road trip across Switzerland promises a magnificent time exploring what to see in Lucerne. You have 1 night left in Lucerne. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the town.

Swiss Museum Of Transport leaves a lasting impression. This museum is one of the most locally renowned places to visit in Lucerne. Next, head to Chapel Bridge, an interesting historical landmark, known for its awe-inspiring features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Sammlung Rosengart Luzern. This photogenic art gallery is a highly recommended 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.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Lucerne's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Don’t miss out on dining at Ampersand, a top-rated dining destination in Lucerne. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Mr. Pickwick Pub Luzern, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Made in Sud Italienisches Restaurant Luzern. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Lucerne this evening.

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

On day 7 of your road trip in Switzerland, you’ll start and end your day in Zurich, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you still have 1 night to spend in Zurich, there’s no need to rush. Experience Neuhausen, Schaffhausen, and Stein am Rhein to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary.

After soaking in Zurich’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Neuhausen. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 41 min. When you arrive in Neuhausen, it's time to take a break from the road.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Rhine Falls, an astonishing waterfall that everyone visiting Neuhausen should see.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Neuhausen and set your GPS to Schaffhausen. 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 10 min. Upon reaching Schaffhausen, 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 Kloster Allerheiligen, Schaffhausen and explore the picture-perfect features.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Schaffhausen, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Stein am Rhein. This drive usually takes around 22 min.

Savor the day by heading to Museum Lindwurm, a locally appreciated museum that draws visitors from near and far.

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

Zurich 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 Zurich.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Cantinetta Antinori, a popular restaurant in Zurich. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Zurich at El Lokal, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Aurora. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Zurich tonight.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Eldorado, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Gotthard Bar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, La Stanza provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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 Gruyères. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Bern, where will spend 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Gruyères. This car ride takes around 2 hours 9 min.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Château De Gruyères and explore the visually striking features. Next, make your way to Hr Giger Museum, another highlight in Gruyères.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the village's best attractions, visit The Fork - Alimentarium, a locally appreciated art installation that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey. Next, head to Chillon Castle and admire its enchanting features.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Bern, 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 Bern. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Savor the flavors at Volver BarTapasCafé, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Gourmanderie Moléson beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider McCarthy's Irish Pub Bern. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Bern tonight.

Continue your lively evening at Ebrietas Bern, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Adrianos Bar & Café is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Les Amis / Wohnzimmer ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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