6-Day Switzerland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Basel to Lucerne and Montreux
Description
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Description
Explore the best of Switzerland on a 6-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Basel, Lucerne, Thun, Axalp, Gruyères, Pringy, Montreux, 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, 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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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.
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.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Cargo Kultur Bar, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try KOHLMANNS? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at tibits as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Basel.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Schall Und Rauch Bar, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Grenzwert Bar. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at 8 Bar, another top-rated place in the area.
Raise a toast to the start of your 6-day road trip in Switzerland!
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
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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.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Basel. Some of the town’s most loved attractions await! Swiss Museum Of Transport is the perfect place to start. This museum is one of the most captivating places to visit in Basel. Next, head to Lion Monument Lucerne, a locally renowned monument, known for its historic features.
In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Museggmauer. This breathtaking historical landmark is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Chapel Bridge and Jesuit Church, Lucerne. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.
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 day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Lucerne's best restaurants.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Valentino, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Restaurant Weisses Schloss? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Bolero as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Lucerne.
Unwind after your meal by stepping into Bar 58. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Blue Bar & Smokers Lounge offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Penthouse, another top-rated bar in the area.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Switzerland.
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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At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Lucerne, where you'll stay for 1 night more.
Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders in Lucerne. Begin your sightseeing with Harderkulm. This often recommended observation deck is one of the top attractions in the hamlet. Proceed to Thun Castle, another must-visit attraction.
As you wander through the inviting streets of Lucerne, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Lake Brienz. This frequently visited lake is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Giessbach Waterfalls, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Lucerne and your accommodation.
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.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Ampersand, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Mr. Pickwick Pub Luzern? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Made in Sud Italienisches Restaurant Luzern as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Lucerne.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Switzerland!
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
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in Switzerland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Gruyères, Pringy, and Montreux. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Montreux. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Today’s itinerary in Lucerne covers several incredible sights, including a castle, a museum, and a monument. Start your adventure at Château De Gruyères. This notable castle is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the photogenic wonders of La Maison Du Gruyère, a must-see museum in the village.
Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Freddie Mercury Statue. This frequently visited monument offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Montreux Museum, where you can take in history-steeped features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Chillon Castle. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Montreux. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Montreux. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Savor the flavors at MONTREUX JAZZ CAFE, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, La Corsa Al Cilento beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Rando Burger Restaurant. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Montreux tonight.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at Riva Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Funky Claude's Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Switzerland.
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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Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Switzerland. Today you will explore Bern, 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 Basel. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
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 picture-perfect attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Unesco - Bern Old Town, one of the city’s most curiosity-inducing attractions, known for its romantic features.
If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Bear Pit. This history-steeped zoo is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Rose Garden Bern, a beloved botanical garden, and take a stroll around the area.
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.
As you explore more of Basel, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Essential by Dorint Basel City, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Hasenburg offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Smilla Café. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Basel.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Consum offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, L'atelier is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Landestelle - Freiluft-loung & Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Switzerland and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
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.
Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.
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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