5-Day Switzerland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Basel to Lucerne

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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.
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Explore the best of Switzerland on a 5-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Basel, Lucerne, and Bern. This road trip itinerary in Switzerland seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.

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 and 2 nights in Lucerne. 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 Bear Pit, learn more about the unique Swiss Museum Of Transport, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Middle Bridge.

As you hit the open road and drive through Basel, Lucerne, 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 TransportZytturmMuseggmauerChapel BridgeJesuitenkirche Hl. Franz Xaver
Mount PilatusSpreuerbrückeMännliturmHofkirche St. LeodegarBourbaki Panorama LucerneLion Monument Lucerne
Rosengarten Bernbear pitUNESCO - Bern Old TownZytgloggeBundesplatz
Freie Strasse

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Basel - Arrival day
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  • Mittlere Brücke
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Your road trip adventure in Switzerland begins as soon as you reach Basel and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Basel for 1 night and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

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.

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Basel. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.

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.

Dine in style at Cargo Kultur Bar, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, KOHLMANNS boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out tibits. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Basel.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Schall Und Rauch Bar, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Grenzwert Bar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out 8 Bar. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in Switzerland!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Basel
  • Lucerne
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Drive 103 km, 1 hour 40 min

  • Swiss Museum of Transport
  • Zytturm
  • Museggmauer
  • Chapel Bridge
  • Jesuitenkirche Hl. Franz Xaver
  • More

Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Switzerland. Today you will explore Lucerne, 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 Lucerne. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Basel is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and history-rich sites! Start at Swiss Museum Of Transport, a popular museum that is worthwhile a visit in the town. Nearby, you’ll find Zytturm, enchanting visitors with its picture-perfect appeal. Continue your exploration at Museggmauer. This historical landmark is one of the town’s most often recommended 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 curiosity-inducing Jesuit Church, Lucerne.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Lucerne, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Lucerne. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Valentino, a highly-rated dining destination in Lucerne. If you're eager to try something different, consider Restaurant Weisses Schloss, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Bolero. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Lucerne this evening.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Bar 58, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Blue Bar & Smokers Lounge offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Penthouse provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Lucerne
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Drive 25 km, 1 hour 38 min

  • Mount Pilatus
  • Spreuerbrücke
  • Männliturm
  • Hofkirche St. Leodegar
  • Bourbaki Panorama Lucerne
  • Lion Monument Lucerne
  • More

On day 3 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Lucerne. You’ll stay in Lucerne for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. The first attraction of today is Mount Pilatus. This often recommended mountain range is a mesmerizing place to see in Lucerne. Continue your discovery at Spreuer Bridge, Lucerne, a visually striking historical landmark with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Lucerne, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this town so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Männliturm. This curiosity-inducing monument offers a culturally significant encounter with Lucerne. Next, make your way to Church Of St. Leodegar to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Bourbaki-panorama (building), a curiosity-inducing museum that’s sure to impress. If you’re up for more, end your self-guided sightseeing tour at Lion Monument Lucerne, a popular monument in the town. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Lucerne.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Switzerland is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Lucerne. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Ampersand, a highly-rated dining destination in Lucerne. If you're eager to try something different, consider Mr. Pickwick Pub Luzern, another top spot with a tantalizing 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 an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Lucerne this evening.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Switzerland!

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Lucerne
  • Basel
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Drive 212 km, 2 hours 58 min

  • Rosengarten Bern
  • bear pit
  • UNESCO - Bern Old Town
  • Zytglogge
  • Bundesplatz
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Switzerland. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Bern. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Basel, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Whether you decide to explore Lucerne on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Rose Garden Bern is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this instagrammable botanical garden before continuing your journey. Bear Pit is your next stop. This locally renowned zoo is one of the best-rated sights in Lucerne.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Unesco - Bern Old Town. This visually striking historical landmark is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Zytglogge and Bundesplatz.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Basel. Basel 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 Basel's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

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.

Continue your lively evening at Consum, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. L'atelier is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Landestelle - Freiluft-loung & Bar ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Switzerland!

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Basel - Departure day
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  • Freie Strasse
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Day 5 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.

One of the best things to do on your last day 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.

On your last day in Switzerland, take time to indulge in shopping at Basel’s popular marketplace. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.

Before you conclude your road trip in Switzerland, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Basel.

If you're in the mood for something new, try HANS IM GLÜCK - BASEL Steinenvorstadt, another premier location with a delectable 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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