6-Day Switzerland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Basel to Lucerne and Montreux

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Photo of riverside of Rhine in Basel dominated by majestic building of Munster church, Switzerland.
Photo of Rathaus the Town Hall of Basel ,Switzerland.
Photo of office buildings cityscape on the Rhine River in autumn.Basel, Switzerland.
Photo of University Building in Basel, Switzerland in summer.
Photo of Tinguely fountain in the center of Basel, Switzerland.
Photo of traditional autumn fair in Basel, Switzerland.
Photo of river green waterfront in town of Basel, Northwestern Switzerland.
Photo of Basel historic upper town alley architecture view, Northwestern Switzerland.
Photo of university of Basel Botanical Garden, Switzerland.
Photo of Minster Basel, Switzerland.
Photo of street and colorful houses in the historical Old Town in Basel city center, Switzerland.
Photo of town Hall of Basel, Switzerland.
Photo of Wettsteinbrücke Basel, Switzerland.
Photo of Christmas fairytale market at Munsterplatz and Munster Cathedral, Swiss Confederation, Basel, Switzerland.
Photo of Lucerne in Switzerland by Andrzej
Scenic summer aerial panorama of the Old Town medieval architecture in Lucerne, Switzerland
photo of view of Lucerne, Switzerland.
Lucerne, Switzerland. Historic city center with its famous Chapel Bridge and Mt. Pilatus on the background. (Vierwaldstattersee),
View over Lucerne with Museggmauer from castle Guetsch.
Lucerne - one of the most picturesque cities in Switzerland
photo of view of Lucerne, Switzerland.
Kriens urban scenery, view from cable car in Pilatus mountain at Luzern, Switzerland
Hergiswald church in swiss Alps mountains, high above Lucerne city, is an important historical pilgrimage destination in Switzerland
Christmas illumination on a winter night in Lucerne city, Switzerland
photo of view of Lucerne, Switzerland.
photo of view of Lucerne, Switzerland.
photo of view of Lucerne, Switzerland.
photo of view of Lucerne, Switzerland.
The Church of St. Leodegar (Hofkirche St. Leodegar) Roman Catholic church in the city of Lucerne, Switzerland.
Panorama view of Montreux city with Swiss Alps, lake Geneva and vineyard on Lavaux region, Canton Vaud, Switzerland, Europe.
Montreux harbor with yachts and boats panoramic view. Montreux is a town on the Lake Geneva at the foot of the Alps in Switzerland.
MONTREUX, SWITZERLAND  - Castle Chillon one of the most visited castle in Switzerland attracts more than 300,000 visitors every year.
Public park in Montreux. Montreux is a town on the shoreline of Lake Geneva at the foot of the Alps in Switzerland
Montreux is a town on the shoreline of Lake Geneva at the foot of the Alps in Switzerland
Summer evening landscape of Lake Geneva in Montreux, Switzerland
Building architecture in Montreux, Switzerland
Night cityscape of Montreux Switzerland with land and ferris wheel.
woman looking at Montreux city view and Leman lake- Switzerland
Bench on the Montreux Riviera promenade with a view to mountains Alps Evian and Leman Geneva lake. Girl sitting and enjoying the landscape.
Panorama view of Montreux city with Swiss Alps, lake Geneva and vineyard on Lavaux region, Canton Vaud, Switzerland, Europe.
Elegant Montreux Street with Mountain Views - Swiss
Landscape of Montreux and Lake Geneva, Switzerland.
Scenic Montreux: Lakeside and Mountain Views - Swiss
Pier at Geneva Lake in Montreux Vaud canton Switzerlandof in autumn
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Escape the ordinary with this exciting 6-day road trip through Switzerland. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!

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 Lucerne, and 1 night in Montreux. 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. Chapel Bridge and Lion Monument Lucerne are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Chillon Castle, learn more about the unique Bear Pit, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Swiss Museum Of Transport.

As you hit the open road and drive through Basel, Lucerne, Thun, Axalp, Gruyères, Pringy, Montreux, and Bern, 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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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Mittlere Brücke
Swiss Museum of TransportLion Monument LucerneMuseggmauerChapel BridgeJesuitenkirche Hl. Franz Xaver
HarderkulmThun CastleLake BrienzGiessbach Waterfalls
Castle of the counts of GruyèresLa Maison du GruyèreFreddie Mercury statueMontreux MuseumChillon Castle
BundesplatzZytgloggeUNESCO - Bern Old Townbear pitRosengarten Bern
Freie Strasse

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Day 1

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.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Basel. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Switzerland. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars 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 Basel, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Cargo Kultur Bar, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, KOHLMANNS is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at tibits. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Basel tonight.

Continue your lively evening at Schall Und Rauch Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Grenzwert Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, 8 Bar ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Raise a toast to the start of your 6-day road trip in Switzerland!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Basel
  • Lucerne
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Drive 104 km, 1 hour 56 min

  • Swiss Museum of Transport
  • Lion Monument Lucerne
  • Museggmauer
  • Chapel Bridge
  • Jesuitenkirche Hl. Franz Xaver
  • More

On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Switzerland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Lucerne. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Lucerne, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Basel is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures! Start at Swiss Museum Of Transport, an interesting museum that is worthwhile a visit in the town. Nearby, you’ll find Lion Monument Lucerne, enchanting visitors with its culturally significant appeal. Continue your exploration at Museggmauer. This historical landmark is one of the town’s most increasingly popular spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Basel at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Chapel Bridge. After exploring the historical landmark, head to the locally appreciated Jesuit Church, Lucerne.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of 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.

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Valentino, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Restaurant Weisses Schloss offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Bolero is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Lucerne.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Bar 58 after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Blue Bar & Smokers Lounge for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Penthouse is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Switzerland.

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Lucerne
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Drive 208 km, 3 hours 49 min

  • Harderkulm
  • Thun Castle
  • Lake Brienz
  • Giessbach Waterfalls
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Wake up to day 3 of your extraordinary road trip in Switzerland. With 1 night left in Lucerne, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the town’s surroundings!

Get ready for an exciting day in Lucerne. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes an observation deck, a castle, a lake, a waterfall and much more! Begin your adventure at Harderkulm. This is a worthwhile observation deck you should not miss. Another must-see is Thun Castle, a curiosity-inducing castle in Lucerne.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Lake Brienz. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Giessbach Waterfalls, another of the hamlet’s frequently visited attractions.

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

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

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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Day 4

Day 4

  • Lucerne
  • Montreux
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Drive 221 km, 3 hours 5 min

  • Castle of the counts of Gruyères
  • La Maison du Gruyère
  • Freddie Mercury statue
  • Montreux Museum
  • Chillon Castle
  • More

On day 4 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 Gruyères, Pringy, and Montreux. In the evening, you’ll end up in Montreux, where you will stay for 1 night.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Lucerne allows for both. Start by heading to Château De Gruyères. This interesting castle provides an insightful glimpse into the village's identity. Next, discover La Maison Du Gruyère, a heritage-rich museum, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Freddie Mercury Statue, a curiosity-inducing monument. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the locally appreciated Montreux Museum. Round off your day at Chillon Castle, another gem in Lucerne with romantic features to discover.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Montreux, 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 in Montreux. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the town, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Dine in style at MONTREUX JAZZ CAFE, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, La Corsa Al Cilento boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Rando Burger Restaurant. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Montreux.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Riva Bar, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Funky Claude's Bar. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Switzerland and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Montreux
  • Basel
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Drive 188 km, 2 hours 41 min

  • Bundesplatz
  • Zytglogge
  • UNESCO - Bern Old Town
  • bear pit
  • Rosengarten Bern
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in Switzerland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Bern. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Basel. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Today's adventure in Montreux promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Bundesplatz. This heritage-rich public square is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Zytglogge, another historic attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Unesco - Bern Old Town, one of the city’s most beloved attractions, known for its romantic features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Bear Pit. This visually striking zoo is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Rose Garden Bern, an intriguing botanical garden, and take a stroll around the area.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Basel. 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 Basel. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Essential by Dorint Basel City, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Hasenburg? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Smilla Café as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Basel.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Consum after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to L'atelier, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Landestelle - Freiluft-loung & Bar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

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Day 6

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.

Make the most of your final day in Switzerland by visiting Basel’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience 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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Hotel Les Trois Rois, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, HANS IM GLÜCK - BASEL Steinenvorstadt offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu.

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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