9-Day Switzerland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Basel traveling east to Bern, Interlaken, Lugano, and Zurich

On day 2 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 Basel. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bern, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Today’s route brings fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. The first attraction of today is Basel Minster. This intriguing church is a history-steeped place to see in Basel. Continue your discovery at Fine Arts Museum Basel, a heritage-rich museum with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Basel, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Tinguely Fountain. This locally appreciated art installation offers a breathtaking encounter with Basel. Next, make your way to Basel Zoo 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 Basel.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Bern, 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 Bern's best restaurants.

Experience a harmony of flavors at ZOE in Bern by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 1-star Michelin status, ZOE offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious vegetarian and modern menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Steinhalle, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing creative and international cuisine. This popular 1-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Wein & Sein, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional modern menu.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Zum Kuckuck, known for its lively atmosphere. Piazza Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Die Taube offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Head back to your accommodation in Bern and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Switzerland!

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Bern, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Today’s itinerary in Bern covers several incredible sights, including a historical landmark, a zoo, a castle, a museum and much more! Start your adventure at Unesco - Bern Old Town. This locally appreciated historical landmark is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the peaceful wonders of Bear Pit, a must-see zoo in the city.

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 Château De Gruyères. This captivating castle offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to La Maison Du Gruyère, where you can take in historic features. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Bern.

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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Volver BarTapasCafé, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Gourmanderie Moléson is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at McCarthy's Irish Pub Bern. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Bern tonight.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Ebrietas Bern, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Adrianos Bar & Café provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Les Amis / Wohnzimmer offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Switzerland!

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Switzerland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 4 destinations, Beatenberg, Harderkulm, Schwanden bei Brienz, and Interlaken. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Interlaken, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Bern. Some of the village’s most loved attractions await! St. Beatus-höhlen, Swiss Caves is the perfect place to start. This cave system is one of the most locally appreciated places to visit in Bern. Next, head to Harderkulm, a worthwhile observation deck, known for its majestic 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 Titlis Cliff Walk. This breathtaking canopy walk is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Ballenberg, Swiss Open-air Museum and Höhematte Interlaken. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Interlaken. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Interlaken. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Discover the culinary delights of Interlaken by securing a reservation at Radius by Stefan Beer. Esteemed for its 1-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of regional and swiss cuisine. Alternatively, Taj Palace beckons with its unique menu offerings.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Brasserie 17, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your road trip in Switzerland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Lucerne. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Zurich. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites. Whether you decide to explore Lugano on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Swiss Museum Of Transport is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this instagrammable museum before continuing your journey. Lion Monument Lucerne is your next stop. This captivating monument is one of the best-rated sights in Lugano.

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 Chapel Bridge. This romantic historical landmark is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Spreuer Bridge, Lucerne.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Zurich, 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 Zurich's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Widder Restaurant, a 2-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible modern french and contemporary menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, IGNIV Zürich by Andreas Caminada is one of the best restaurants for sharing and modern cuisine in Zurich. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at The Restaurant. As a top-rated establishment with 2 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for creative and modern cuisine in the city.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Widder Bar, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Rio Bar. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Cp First - Cocktailbar & Lounge, another top-rated place in the area.

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

Day 7 of your road trip across Switzerland promises a magnificent time exploring Zurich. You have 1 night left in Zurich. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

One of the most iconic places you can visit today in Zurich is Old Town (Altstadt). Allow yourself some time to explore this neighborhood and discover its unique quirks. You'll also find many of the best sightseeing spots nearby. You can also explore Bahnhofstrasse, a street that offers a glimpse into local life and culture.

A blend of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views await you in Zurich on today’s itinerary. First up is the captivating historical landmark, Lindenhof. Afterward, continue to Zürich Zoo, a zoo every traveler should visit.

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.

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Cantinetta Antinori, a top-rated dining spot in Zurich. If you're in the mood for something new, try El Lokal, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Aurora. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Zurich.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Eldorado, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Gotthard Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. La Stanza likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 of your road trip in Switzerland. Today, you will make 4 stops and experience some of the highlights of Sellenbüren, Kloten, Winterthur, and Neuhausen. 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.

Zurich is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders! Start at Üetliberg, an underrated mountain range that is worthwhile a visit in the hamlet. Nearby, you’ll find Aussichtsturm Uetliberg - Top Of Zurich, enchanting visitors with its romantic appeal. Continue your exploration at Observation Deck B. This observation deck is one of the hamlet’s most increasingly popular spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Zurich at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Swiss Science Center Technorama. After exploring the science center, head to the impressive Rhine Falls.

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 dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Basel. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Basel by booking a table at Cheval Blanc by Peter Knogl, a 3-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional classic french menu. For a different flavor experience, head to roots, renowned for its delectable modern and seasonal dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit Stucki - Tanja Grandits, a local gem known for its delightful creative and modern cuisine in Basel. Nestled in the city's heart, this 2-star Michelin restaurant is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Consum, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of L'atelier, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Landestelle - Freiluft-loung & Bar likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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