14-Day Switzerland France Italy Itinerary: Best of 3 Countries on a 2-Week Road Trip

Can you allocate two weeks for your European vacation and want to see as much as possible of the most beautiful sights? Then this article was made for you!

A road trip crossing Switzerland, Southern France, and Northern Italy is a dream for many, so we’ve created an itinerary where you can explore the best places in these three countries.

In many ways, these are the most exciting countries in Western Europe, full of stunning places: with the breathtaking peaks of the Alps, mountain lakes, fantastic views, gorgeous coastlines, and charming cities.

Honestly, this is one of our favorite itineraries, although we haven’t done it yet, but we plan to travel in these three countries this summer based on it.

We’ve traveled multiple times to all three countries, and Italy is our favorite in Europe, and we visit there almost every month (luckily for us, it’s just a few hours’ drive away). Plus, we consider Switzerland to offer the most breathtaking landscapes in Europe, and the French Riviera is also close to our hearts, as we return there almost every summer. Is there anything better than embarking on a longer road trip to these three wonderful countries?

So let’s see the details of the 14-day road trip exploring Switzerland, Southern France, and Northern Italy.

Overview of the 2-week Switzerland France Italy road trip

Let’s take a brief look at how we recommend spending 14 days in Switzerland, the South of France and Northern Italy to make your trip a truly unforgettable experience:

Switzerland itinerary

• Day 1: Zurich
• Day 2: Oeschinensee, Lauterbrunnen
• Day 3: Zermatt
• Day 4: Lake Geneva
• Day 5-13: France and Italy
• Day 14: Lucerne

South of France itinerary

• Day 5: Annecy
• Day 6: Valensole, Verdon
• Day 7: Marseille
• Day 8: Nice
• Day 9: Monaco, Menton

Northern Italy itinerary

• Day 10: Cinque Terre
• Day 11: Portofino
• Day 12: Milan
• Day 13: Lake Como

General questions about the 2-week trip around France, Italy and Switzerland

Is two weeks enough for a road trip around Switzerland, France, and Italy?

Basically, we’ve planned out the attractions for two weeks, but you can adjust the time as needed.

If you plan fewer stops or skip some places, less time might be enough. And if you want to relax, then plan for more time.

Two weeks are enough to get a taste of each destination, see the best sights, do some hiking in the mountains, briefly visit the coast, and explore the most beautiful cities. If you want a more detailed, slower trip, we suggest 3–4 weeks.

Best time to visit these 3 countries

If we have to pick the best time, we’d say the second half of June and the first half of July. Why? Because during this time, there aren’t too many crowds, and it’s when lavender blooms in France, offering a unique experience with lavender fields.

If you would skip the lavender fields, May and September are also great times for such a road trip: the landscapes are beautiful, the weather is pleasant, hiking trails are open, and prices are lower than in the summer.

What wouldn’t we recommend? We don’t suggest winter because it’s suitable only for skiing, and the weather isn’t good for most outdoor activities. We also don’t recommend the latter half of summer due to the high number of tourists, intense heat, and traffic jams.

How to get around the 3 countries

We primarily planned for a road trip, so our recommendation is to rent a car in one country and drive it around all three.

Alternatively, another option could be flying between major cities, establishing ‘hubs’ (likely Zurich or Bern, Marseille, and Milan), and renting a car separately in each country to avoid the extra charge for taking a rented car abroad (crossing borders with a rented car usually incurs additional fees).

Whichever option you choose, you’ll likely need a car to reach rural destinations.

Public transportation is mainly available between major cities, so you may have to skip some rural destinations.

What to expect in Switzerland

Interestingly, in Switzerland, renting a car is often cheaper compared to the other two countries. Additionally, you can expect good quality and service.

Driving in Switzerland is comfortable. Although there aren’t many highways, the roads are in good condition, and drivers follow the rules. Parking in cities is also not difficult.

For highway travel, you’ll need an annual vignette, which you can easily buy at petrol stations or online. It’s not expensive compared to tolls in the other countries.

If you choose public transportation, trains are the main option. Switzerland is well-known for its extensive train network, making it easy to reach many places with just 1–2 transfers.

What to expect in France

In France, driving can be a bit more complicated.

Firstly, highways have high tolls, which can make driving very expensive.

Secondly, more and more cities are implementing emission restrictions, meaning you’ll need to get a sticker for your car indicating its emissions level. Only vehicles with certain classifications can enter these restricted areas. This usually applies to major cities and often changes. Because of this, it’s advisable to drive a petrol or electric car, as they receive better classifications (there’s a strong anti-diesel sentiment in this matter).

Driving is also more challenging in France, there’s more rule-breaking, and roads are often overcrowded. While the roads themselves are of good quality, the toll system and heavy traffic make the driving less enjoyable.

Parking can be a problem in larger towns and cities, and car break-ins are common (especially around the Riviera) due to poor public safety.

Regardless, unfortunately, we still haven’t found a better option than driving in France, because there is no other way to get to the countryside.

What to expect in Italy

Driving in Italy is an adventure.

If we had to give a Razzie Award for driving style, the Italians would win. The rules are often not followed, the driving style is unpredictable (there are many aggressive drivers), parking is a mess, and the prices are sky-high. You should also be careful of your car in the northwest, because there is a lot of crime.

So if you want to drive in Italy, bring your best driving skills and switch to survival mode. 😀

In Milan, watch out for the ZTL, which is also a restriction for cars. There are complex rules for this, so always check the current rules to see if you can drive into the city center.

On the bright side, you can enjoy fantastic scenery while driving in any of these three countries, and your trip is sure to be an unforgettable experience.

Where to start the trip

We suggest starting in Switzerland, preferably in Zurich. Zurich is well-connected, with many international flights landing there if you arrive by plane. Additionally, it’s also one of the best places to rent a car.

If you arrive with your own car, you can start from anywhere.

Where to stay during the two weeks

We can suggest two options:

• Stay near a different location every day, so you don’t have to drive unnecessarily for accommodation
• Stay at “hubs” and take day trips to nearby attractions

We recommend accommodation options near most places, so you can choose the one that suits you best.

Costs of a 14-day road trip

In terms of costs, the most significant factors are as follows:

Accommodation costs

Accommodation is undoubtedly the most expensive in Switzerland. An average hotel room in Switzerland costs nearly 1.5-2 times more than in France or Italy. Overall, the average accommodation cost ranges from 100 to 300 euros per night for two people. If you’re considering luxury travel, expect to pay more.

Travel expenses

We use the ViaMichelin.com route planner, which accurately calculates European travel costs, including fuel and tolls. Our route is approximately 2000 km, which roughly translates to about 400–500 euros for the two-week trip in 2024 (this is just an estimate), plus the cost of car rental (which depends on your choice).

The other question is how you get to the starting point, as the cost of that is also part of the trip.

Food costs

Food is also the most expensive in Switzerland, where you’ll find high prices in both stores and restaurants. In France, stores are not as expensive, and you can eat hot meals, sandwiches, or grilled chicken at reasonable prices in supermarkets. If you’re looking for restaurants, expect slightly higher prices. You’ll find the best prices in Italy. Both in stores and restaurants, dining is much more affordable, so if you’re on a tight budget, it’s worth saving your big food and drink experiences for Italy. Overall, it’s challenging to determine food costs precisely, but budget at least 40–60 euros per person per day.

Costs of activities

The majority of activities in our itinerary are mostly free or inexpensive. So, you don’t have to worry about significant costs in this regard.

However, if you want to include other activities such as boat trips, renting water bikes or kayaks, more specialized outdoor activities (e.g., paragliding, canyoning), train excursions, entrance tickets to additional places, make sure to include these in your budget.

Overall, don’t plan on less than €4-5000 for two people for these two weeks.

Best 2-week itinerary to visit the highlights of Switzerland, France and Italy

Day 1: Zurich

We start the 14-day road trip in Zurich.

Zurich, Switzerland’s largest city, offers a great start for exploring the country. Situated on Lake Zurich’s shores, the city blends modernity with rich history.

Spend the first day exploring Zurich: wander through the Old Town, stroll along the Limmat River, visit landmarks like Grossmünster church, and walk down Bahnhofstrasse for shopping.

In the afternoon, enjoy Lake Zurich with its parks and optional boat tours.

For culture lovers, Zurich boasts museums like Kunsthaus Zurich and the Swiss National Museum. Football enthusiasts can visit the FIFA Museum.

For stunning views, head to the Uetliberg Lookout Tower.

The evening is free for dining or relaxing in local restaurants and bars.

Day 2: Oeschinensee, Lauterbrunnen

On the second day, head to the countryside to visit two stunning Swiss locations: Oeschinensee in Kandersteg and Lauterbrunnen.

Start early to make the most of your day. Oeschinensee, near Kandersteg, is one of Switzerland’s most beautiful lakes.

The mountain cable car to the lake operates until the afternoon, so it’s best to visit earlier in the day. Take the cable car and then hike to the lake for breathtaking views of its vibrant blue waters and surrounding snowy peaks of the Swiss Alps.

Enjoy lunch at one of the lakeside restaurants and consider hiking or renting a boat for more activities.

In the late afternoon and evening, explore Lauterbrunnen, famous for its 72 waterfalls.

Visit the iconic Staubbach Waterfall and stroll through the picturesque village streets.

Day 3: Zermatt

Day 3 of our itinerary leads us to the iconic Matterhorn and its surrounding area, Zermatt.

To reach Zermatt, if you’re arriving by car, you’ll need to park in the nearby village of Täsch and take a train to Zermatt from there. Alternatively, taxis are allowed to enter Zermatt.

Since we have only one day in this area, we recommend a shorter hike. An excellent option is the 5 Lakes Walk, which offers stunning views of the Matterhorn and passes by five beautiful lakes: Stellisee, Grindjisee, Grünsee, Moosjisee, and Leisee. The hike starts with a funicular and cable car ride, followed by a 10 km trek around the lakes, ending with a descent back to town on a funicular.

If hiking isn’t your preference, consider taking the Gornergrat Railway for panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

Along the way, stop by a mountain hut or restaurant to enjoy local dishes.

After your outdoor adventures, take a leisurely stroll through Zermatt, capturing stunning views from Kirchbrücke (bridge) and the “Zermatt Matterhorn Viewpoint”.

Day 4: Lake Geneva

Day 4 of the 14-day journey takes us to Lake Geneva, where we explore two charming cities: Geneva and Lausanne.

Both cities offer unique attractions, and if time permits, we recommend visiting highlights in both places.

Lausanne

Firstly, head to Lausanne, a picturesque city with a captivating old town. Start your exploration at Lausanne Cathedral, then wander through charming streets to landmarks like Palais de Rumine and Pont Bessières. For panoramic views, visit the Sauvabelin Tower.

Geneva

After Lausanne, travel to Geneva, Switzerland’s third-largest city, situated on Lake Geneva’s shores. Key attractions like the Jardin Anglais, featuring the famous Flower Clock, and the impressive Geneva Water Fountain are within walking distance. Don’t miss Saint Peter’s Cathedral, offering panoramic views of the city and the lake.

Both Geneva and Lausanne offer delightful experiences, making them perfect stops on our journey around Lake Geneva.

In the evening, it’s worth heading on to France, as hotel prices around Lake Geneva are extremely high.

Pro tip: In the next destination, Annecy, you can get accommodation for almost half the price compared to Lake Geneva.

After Geneva, you will find the Swiss-French border crossing, which recently has border controls (despite the Schengen area). After the border, a short drive will take you to the lovely city of Annecy, where it’s worth stopping for a while.

Day 5: Annecy

On day five, our itinerary continues in Annecy, France.

Annecy is a beautiful city in France, situated directly at the foot of the Alps. The city is also known as the “Venice of the Alps” due to its beautiful canals that cross the old town. The narrow streets of Annecy’s old quarter, with their cobblestone alleys, flower-filled terraces, and famous canals, create a romantic atmosphere.

The Lake Annecy, a turquoise-blue lake, is located right by the city. The natural environment around the lake and the city offers abundant outdoor activities such as cycling, boat trips, and hiking.

The Château d’Annecy castle in the center and the historic Palais de l’Isle are also impressive attractions.

If you want to optimize your time, consider heading towards Valensole in the evening. Along the way, you can stop at the stunning town of Sisteron, where you can enjoy a wonderful riverside view.

Day 6: Valensole, Verdon Gorge

On the sixth day, there are two planned destinations. If you’re traveling to the French region in June-July, you can visit the lavender fields of Valensole, otherwise, at any other time of the year, you can explore the Verdon Gorge.

Valensole lavender fields

The area around Valensole is really full of lavender fields in summer. In particular, you will find the best fields along the D6 and D8 roads. If you travel between mid-June and mid-July, make sure you plan enough time to visit the lavender fields and to take the best photos.

Verdon Gorge

The Verdon Gorge, often called the ‘Grand Canyon of Europe,’ is located in the Provence region of France. Carved by the Verdon River, it boasts stunning blue-green waters and towering cliffs, offering breathtaking views.

For active tourists, the Verdon Gorge and the nearby Lac de Sainte-Croix offer various activities like kayaking, water biking, climbing, and hiking. Lac de Sainte-Croix is perfect for relaxation, with options for swimming and beach activities, along with boat rentals for exploring the gorge. It’s a popular summer destination.

Day 7: Marseille, Calanques

For the seventh day of the itinerary, we’ve planned two options: city sightseeing in Marseille or hiking in the stunning Calanques National Park.

For city sightseeing, Marseille offers a vibrant experience with its diverse attractions. Alternatively, nature enthusiasts can explore the hidden gems of Calanques National Park.

If you’re interested in both, it might be challenging to fit everything into one day, so we recommend adding an extra day. However, if you’re determined to see it all in a day, we suggest touring Marseille’s key sights in the morning and visiting one of the more accessible calanques in the afternoon, such as Calanque de Morgiou or Calanque de Sugiton.

So, let’s explore the options for your seventh day itinerary:

Marseille

Marseille, the capital of Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur, is France’s second-largest city, bustling with attractions for tourists.

The top sights in Marseille:

• Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde: This basilica offers stunning city views from its highest point, reachable by car or the Les Petits Trains de Marseille.
• Old Port of Marseille: Enjoy picturesque views of the port and Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde from the north side. The square in front of Eglise Saint Laurent provides breathtaking panoramas.
• Palais Longchamp: A beautiful 19th-century architectural marvel with a central fountain, flanked by waterfalls and arcades, surrounded by green space.
• Cathédrale La Major: A Neo-Byzantine-style cathedral near the Old Port, worth a visit for its architectural grandeur.

To make the most of your day, consider using public transport or sightseeing services like small trains or bus tours. And don’t miss out on the shopping and dining experiences in Marseille!

Calanques de Cassis

Option two offers a nature and hiking adventure in the Calanques National Park, known for its stunning limestone calanques. These deep bays with turquoise waters are nestled between steep rock walls, offering breathtaking views.

The Calanque d’en Vau, considered one of the most beautiful, is accessible via a challenging 3-4 km hike from Calanque de Port-Miou.

For panoramic vistas, visit the Belvédère d’en Vau viewpoint, offering stunning views of both Calanque d’en Vau and Calanque de l’Oule.

Day 8: Nice

Days 8 and 9 of the itinerary focus on the French Riviera. Here, you can enjoy sightseeing, relaxing on the beach, and indulging in various cultural, architectural, and entertainment activities.

Nice

On day 8, head to Nice, the second-largest city in the region. Nice offers a pleasant surprise with its beautiful scenery, colorful houses, and distinctive architectural style that leans more towards Italian influences than traditional French. This unique blend adds to its charm and makes it a standout destination on the French Riviera.

Nice boasts stunning beaches with crystal-clear turquoise waters stretching along the city’s coastline for miles, making it an ideal spot for beach lovers.

A must-visit attraction in Nice is the Colline du Château (Castle Hill), which offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city, the harbor, and the coastline.

Nearby, you’ll find the vibrant Port of Nice, filled with colorful buildings and numerous dining options.

If you have time to spare in Nice, explore other attractions such as:

• Nice Cathedral
• Jardin Albert 1er (Albert I Garden)
• Fontaine du Soleil (Sun Fountain)
• and Place Masséna.

These landmarks are conveniently located within walking distance from the city center, allowing you to soak in the lively Mediterranean atmosphere of Nice.

Day 9: Monaco, Menton

On day 9, continue your journey along the French Riviera.

The destinations of the day are Monaco and Menton. And here we have to admit that we cheated because we wrote about three countries all along, while Monaco counts as the fourth country. 🙂

Monaco

Monaco, the world’s second-smallest country, offers a unique experience with its charm and elegance.

The best things to do in Monaco as a tourist:

• The iconic Monte Carlo Casino is a must-see attraction, renowned for its stunning architecture and luxurious interiors.
• Take a stroll along Port Hercule for magnificent views of Monaco’s central area.
• Explore the charming old quarter of Monaco-Ville, where you’ll find narrow streets, cozy squares, and attractions like the Oceanographic Museum and the Prince’s Palace.
• For breathtaking views, visit the “Vue panoramique sur Fontvieille” viewpoint or the scenic Jardins Saint-Martin garden.

While in Monaco, experience the blend of luxury, culture, and coastal beauty that Monaco has to offer.

Menton

For the afternoon and evening, the town of Menton waits. Don’t worry about it, because the best places in the city are easy to discover in a short time.

In Menton, you’ll find a lovely seaside town near the Italian border. Known for its vibrant houses, Mediterranean vibe, and beautiful beaches, Menton is a delightful place to explore. Take a stroll along the promenade for stunning views and wander through the charming old quarter.

Don’t miss the Basilica of Saint-Michel Archange, a standout landmark amidst the colorful buildings. Another highlight is the Jardins Biovès garden, famous for hosting the annual lemon festival in February.

Spend a few hours in Menton to soak in its colorful charm and enjoy the unique atmosphere. Known as the “Pearl of France,” Menton promises visitors a memorable experience.

Just one thing to watch out for: the city is notorious for its poor public safety, so as breathtaking as it may be as a tourist, be mindful of your belongings and your car!

Day 10: Cinque Terre

Our 10th day of the journey leads to the famous Italian destination of Cinque Terre.

Cinque Terre in Italy consists of five charming fishing villages on the coast of the Ligurian Sea, in the Liguria region. Known as the “five lands,” these villages are famous for their beautiful landscapes and authentic Italian atmosphere.

Cinque Terre is a must-visit destination in Italy, offering plenty of sights and experiences. The villages’ unique charm, colorful seaside houses, impressive mountains, and the sea, along with Italian cuisine, guarantee a memorable journey.

So on the 10th day, visit the five villages: Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore. The quickest way to visit all five villages is by leaving your car in Monterosso or La Spezia and taking the train to the villages. This way, you can explore all five villages in a single day.

During your visit to Cinque Terre, you can discover the small colorful fishing villages, hike the rocky paths, fantastic viewpoints, enjoy the stunning beaches, and savor delicious Italian cuisine at places like the famous Nessun Dorma restaurant in Manarola.

Don’t miss out on Cinque Terre on this two-week journey, as it will be one of the destinations that offer the most unforgettable experiences.

Day 11: Portofino

On the 11th day, we’re focusing on Portofino.

Portofino is included in the list mainly because we wanted to include a more relaxed day in the itinerary. It’s close to Cinque Terre, so there’s not much driving involved. It’s a charming village, ideal for a few hours of exploration.

Portofino, the charming fishing village on the Italian Riviera, is famous for its picturesque harbor and colorful buildings. Located along the Ligurian coastline, it offers stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and lush green hillsides.

Exploring Portofino doesn’t take much time. Visit the Chiesa del Divo Martino church, take a stroll along the harbor, and climb up to Castello Brown and the surrounding park for the best views.

If you have time left, head to nearby Santa Margherita Ligure, then to Camogli, where you can enjoy similarly breathtaking views by the harbor, much like in Vernazza, one of the Cinque Terre villages!

If you’re looking for more, here’s the opportunity to expand your trip towards other destinations in Italy:

Additional destinations for a longer trip

Florence

Florence, the capital of Italy’s Tuscany region, is renowned for its rich history, stunning art, and iconic architecture.

The cityscape features impressive landmarks like the Florence Cathedral, Uffizi Gallery, and Ponte Vecchio.

Take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets, visit world-class museums, and indulge in Tuscan cuisine at local trattorias.

Venice

Venice, a unique city built on canals, is famous for its romantic atmosphere.

Explore the intricate waterways on a gondola, visit landmarks like the Saint Mark’s Square, the St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace, and get lost in the labyrinth of its enchanting narrow streets.

Venice offers a one-of-a-kind experience with its historic charm and cultural richness.

Lake Garda

Lake Garda, Italy’s largest lake, is a popular destination surrounded by mountains and picturesque lakeside towns.

Enjoy the stunning views, take a boat trip across the lake, and explore the idyllic towns such as Sirmione, Limone sul Garda, and Riva del Garda.

Lake Garda offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and recreational activities, making it a popular retreat for relaxation and outdoor enthusiasts.

If you want to continue with our 14-day itinerary, then travel through Genoa in the evening to reach the world-famous Milan.

Day 12: Milan

On the 12th day, we planned Milan as the next destination for the Italian part of the journey.

So on this day, it’s worth wandering around and exploring the city as much as you can in just one day.

The best things to do in Milan include:

• Visit the famous Milan Cathedral and the Cathedral Square in front of it.
• Don’t miss the chance to visit the famous Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, right next to the Duomo, which you might recognize from social media
• If you have extra time, many attractions in the city center are within walking distance, such as Castello Sforzesco and the Royal Palace of Milan.
• For football fans, the Stadio Giuseppe Meazza (San Siro) is a bit farther away, but worth a visit.
• Don’t forget to indulge in Milan’s renowned cuisine and fashion scene.

One day is usually enough to see the best of Milan, so the next day brings another exciting destination.

Spend the night in Milan, and if you feel like it, enjoy the entertainment options the big city has to offer.

On the second-to-last day, we’ll head back from Milan towards our starting point, Switzerland. However, on this day, we still plan to visit an important destination: the popular Lake Como.

Lake Como is a stunning destination nestled in the foothills of the Italian Alps, renowned for its fantastic landscapes and charming lakeside towns. Spending a day as a tourist there offers numerous enjoyable experiences.

• Begin your day by taking a leisurely stroll along the scenic promenades of towns like Bellagio or Varenna, where you can admire the elegant villas and lush gardens that line the shores.
• Explore the historic streets, browse local shops for souvenirs, and savor delicious Italian cuisine at waterfront restaurants.
• For panoramic views, consider taking a boat tour across the lake, or go up to one of the nearby viewpoints for breathtaking views of Lake Como and the surrounding mountains.
• If you’re traveling in the summer, you’ll also have the opportunity to swim at the shores of Lake Como.

Whether you choose to relax by the water’s edge or embark on an adventure-filled day of exploration, Lake Como promises a memorable experience for any tourist.

Spend the night near Lake Como. In terms of our itinerary, the town of Como has the most favorable location, so we recommend accommodations there:

Day 14: Lucerne

On the last day of the itinerary, we return to Zurich, making a stop in Lucerne.

Lucerne, with 80,000 residents on Lake Lucerne’s shores, is a brief detour or part of your route back to Zurich. It offers a few attractions for a short visit.

Key sites include the historic bridges, Kapellbrücke and Spreuerbrücke, dating back to the 14th and 15th centuries. Both span the Reuss River with stone towers. The Jesuit Church, built in the 17th century, is nearby.

For mountain enthusiasts near Lake Lucerne, consider visiting Mount Pilatus.

Mount Pilatus offers stunning views via the world’s steepest cogwheel railway.

If you plan to visit both Mount Pilatus and Lucerne, we suggest starting with the mountain trip and exploring the city later in the day.

On the 14th evening, we return to Zurich, marking the end of the two-week itinerary.

In this two-week itinerary, we aimed to provide a glimpse of the best places in Switzerland, France, and Italy, showcasing the highlights of these three countries and providing tips to make your trip truly enjoyable.

Although the pace was a bit fast during the itinerary, with some rearrangement or by adding a few days, you can have a comfortable journey through Europe’s most popular destinations.

Switzerland with its stunning peaks and mountain lakes in the Swiss Alps, France with the French Riviera, lavender fields, and turquoise waters, and Italy with its colorful charming towns steal the hearts of millions, making all three countries a must-visit in Europe.

So don’t miss out on these destinations, whether you visit them based on our 2-week itinerary or separately, because you’re sure to have a wonderful experience in these places!