6-Day Switzerland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Basel traveling east to Bern and Zurich
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Experience the freedom of the open road in Switzerland as you embark on an unforgettable 6-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Basel, Bern, Beatenberg, Lucerne, Neuhausen, and Zurich.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Switzerland takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Basel, 2 nights in Bern, and 1 night in Zurich. 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 got you covered.
Upon arriving in Basel, 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. Rhine Falls and Chapel Bridge are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Zürich Zoo, learn more about the unique Lion Monument Lucerne, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Titlis Cliff Walk.
As you hit the open road and drive through Basel, Bern, Beatenberg, Lucerne, Neuhausen, and Zurich, 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, accommodation, 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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Day 1
- Basel - Arrival day
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- Mittlere Brücke
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Welcome to Basel, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Switzerland! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night immersing yourself in Basel's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
Basel 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 Middle Bridge, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Find your way to your hotel in Basel. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Switzerland. Settle in and make plans for the evening.
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 Basel, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Cargo Kultur Bar, a highly-rated dining destination in Basel. If you're eager to try something different, consider KOHLMANNS, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at tibits. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Basel this evening.
Keep the evening going at Schall Und Rauch Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Grenzwert Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is 8 Bar, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
Raise a toast to the start of your 6-day road trip in Switzerland!
Day 2
- Basel
- Bern
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Drive 97 km, 1 hour 41 min
- Basel Minster
- Fine Arts Museum Basel
- Tinguely Fountain
- Zoo Basel
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your road trip in Switzerland. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Basel. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Bern, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.
Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Basel, including a church, a museum, an art installation, a zoo and much more! Start your adventure at Basel Minster. This curiosity-inducing church is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Fine Arts Museum Basel located in Basel for another exciting encounter.
Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Tinguely Fountain. Its stunning features will captivate you. After the art installation, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Basel Zoo. Visitors usually appreciate the stunning features of this zoo.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Bern. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
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 and reflect on the day's adventures.
Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Bern by booking a table at ZOE, a 1-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional vegetarian and modern menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Steinhalle, renowned for its delectable creative and international dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit Wein & Sein, a local gem known for its delightful modern cuisine in Bern. Nestled in the city's heart, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Zum Kuckuck after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Piazza Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Die Taube also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Head back to your accommodation in Bern and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Switzerland!
Day 3
- Bern
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Drive 222 km, 4 hours 13 min
- bear pit
- St. Beatus Caves
- Harderkulm
- Titlis Cliff Walk
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On day 3 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Bern, where you'll stay for 1 night more.
Today’s route brings fun adventures, natural wonders, and breathtaking views. The first attraction of today is Bear Pit. This locally renowned zoo is a visually striking place to see in Bern. Continue your discovery at St. Beatus-höhlen, Swiss Caves, a history-steeped cave system with stories to tell.
As you stroll around Bern, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Harderkulm. This worthwhile observation deck offers a stunning encounter with Bern. Next, make your way to Titlis Cliff Walk to add another highlight to your day. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Bern.
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.
Don’t miss out on dining at Volver BarTapasCafé, a top-rated dining destination in Bern. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Gourmanderie Moléson, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at McCarthy's Irish Pub Bern. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bern this evening.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Ebrietas Bern, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Adrianos Bar & Café. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Les Amis / Wohnzimmer, another top-rated place in the area.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Switzerland!
Day 4
- Bern
- Zurich
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Drive 272 km, 3 hours 50 min
- Spreuerbrücke
- Chapel Bridge
- Lion Monument Lucerne
- Rhine Falls
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Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Switzerland. Today you will explore Lucerne and Neuhausen, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Zurich. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Bern today. One of the most worthwhile attractions included on the itinerary is Spreuer Bridge, Lucerne. This culturally significant historical landmark will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Chapel Bridge and learn what makes this romantic historical landmark unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the popular Lion Monument Lucerne. After exploring the monument, head to Rhine Falls. This famous waterfall is a highlight in Bern.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Zurich. Zurich offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Zurich. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Discover the culinary delights of Zurich by securing a reservation at Widder Restaurant. Esteemed for its 2-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of modern french and contemporary cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try IGNIV Zürich by Andreas Caminada, renowned for its delicious sharing and modern dishes. This esteemed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to The Restaurant, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering creative and modern menu. With its 2-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Widder Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Rio Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Cp First - Cocktailbar & Lounge provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Switzerland!
Day 5
- Zurich
- Basel
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Drive 104 km, 1 hour 39 min
- Lindenhof
- Zürich Zoo
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On day 5 of your road trip in Switzerland, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in Zurich. In the evening, you’ll end up in Basel, where you will stay for 1 night.
A blend of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views await you in Zurich on today’s itinerary. First up is the well-known historical landmark, Lindenhof. Afterward, continue to Zürich Zoo, a zoo every traveler should visit.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Basel, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Basel's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Have a memorable dining experience in Basel by booking a table at Cheval Blanc by Peter Knogl, renowned as a 3-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional classic french menu. For a different culinary experience in Basel, roots shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious modern and seasonal cuisine. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Stucki - Tanja Grandits is known as a top local spot for its delicious creative and modern cuisine in Basel. This 2-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Consum, known for its inviting atmosphere. L'atelier is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Landestelle - Freiluft-loung & Bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Switzerland.
Day 6
- Basel - Departure day
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- Freie Strasse
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Day 6 of your road trip in Switzerland is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Basel 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 things to do today is to explore Freie Strasse, a street that captures the true essence of Basel. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.
Maximize your last day in Switzerland and go on a shopping spree in Basel’s shopping center. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Switzerland.
Before you conclude your road trip in Switzerland, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Basel.
You’ll then say farewell to Basel. 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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