What do I have to consider when picking up a rental car and is there a minimum age?

The minimum age for most vehicle categories is 21 years, for higher vehicle categories 25 years. In addition, driving experience of at least three years is required. There is often a surcharge for young drivers under the age of 25. A credit card in the name of the main driver must be presented when picking up the rental car. A valid driver's license is also required. Additional drivers can be registered on site for a surcharge .

How do I find my way around the Grand Tour of Switzerland?

The route is well marked with over 650 signs . Highways are only used if necessary. You will also receive a travel guide and a Hallwag map so that you don't miss any highlights. The Grand Tour of Switzerland app also provides you with further information about the route and a practical navigation system.

How long does each daily stage take and how many kilometers do I drive per day?

The daily stages of the Grand Tour of Switzerland vary , but you can expect a driving time of around 3 to 5 hours per day . The exact number of kilometers / miles and driving time for each stage are specified in the program . Depending on the route, stops, and traffic , the travel time may also vary slightly.

How far in advance should I book?

We recommend that you book early . Demand is particularly high for the main season (see above). You can book your package deal conveniently online or with our travel experts .

Road Trip

Grand Tour of Switzerland – City & Culture

This is a short city trip in Switzerland by car from the federal capital via the historical heart of Switzerland to the metropolis of Zurich. Embark on a cultural journey of discovery in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Bern's Old Town. You will also have enough time to visit a museum before setting off on the Grand Tour of Switzerland to the next city of culture.

3 days / 2 nights

from $ 290

A city view at sunset with cherry blossoms in the foreground.

The image shows the Federal Palace in Bern with Swiss flags and a blue sky in the background.

Blooming meadow with mountains and forests in the background under a clear sky.

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Highlights

Bern – Swiss capital with charm and history
Drive through the hilly Emmental Valley
Einsiedeln Abbey – a traditional place of pilgrimage and a baroque jewel
Lucerne and the picturesque Lake Lucerne
Zurich – small cosmopolitan city on Lake Zurich

An illuminated street in Bern with the Zytglogge Tower and Swiss flags.

A vast mountain landscape with green hills and snow-capped peaks in the background.

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Travel itinerary

Overview

Map of Switzerland with the itinerary Grand Tour of Switzerland - City & Culture from Bern to Zurich

Day 1

Journey to Bern

Daily Itinerary

You travel to Bern, the capital city of Switzerland. Stroll through the old town, visit the Zytglogge tower, the Swiss federal parliament, and the bear park.

Overnight stay in Bern

The Federal Palace in Bern on a sunny day, surrounded by autumn trees.

Day 2

Travel from Bern to Zurich

Daily Itinerary

Today you will cycle to Zurich on a varied stage. Stop off at particularly beautiful places – for example in the Emmental, at Lake Lucerne, or at Einsiedeln Abbey.

Distance: 220 km / 137 mi

Overnight stay in Zurich

A tranquil lakeside scene with a boat in the foreground and a city in the background at sunset.

Day 3

Return journey from Zurich

Daily Itinerary

Explore Zurich on a city tour, visit one of the many museums, or enjoy the lake. From Zurich you travel to the end point of your journey. Or extend your stay.

View of Zurich with church, river, and bridge in sunny weather.

When is the best time to travel?

Travel period

April to October

Recommended travel period

June to September

High season

July, August

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Included in your booking

Your Digital Swiss Coupon Pass

With every package holiday booking in 2026, we'll give you a Digital Swiss Coupon Pass – your key to over 100 exclusive 2-for-1 experiences throughout Switzerland. Discover more, enjoy more and save up to CHF 4,500.

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