9-Day Switzerland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Basel to Lucerne, Interlaken, and Montreux
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Description
Experience the freedom of the open road in Switzerland as you embark on an unforgettable 9-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Basel, Lucerne, Goldau, Schwanden bei Brienz, Axalp, Interlaken, Mürren, Lauterbrunnen, Beatenberg, Montreux, Pringy, Gruyères, and Broc.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Switzerland takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 3 nights in Basel, 2 nights in Lucerne, 2 nights in Interlaken, 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 Basel Zoo, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Swiss Museum Of Transport.
As you hit the open road and drive through Basel, Lucerne, Goldau, Schwanden bei Brienz, Axalp, Interlaken, Mürren, Lauterbrunnen, Beatenberg, Montreux, Pringy, Gruyères, and Broc, 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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Your road trip adventure in Switzerland begins as soon as you reach Basel and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Basel for 2 nights 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.
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.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Schall Und Rauch Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. Grenzwert Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, 8 Bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in Switzerland!
Day 2
- Basel
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Drive 13 km, 1 hour 2 min
- Spalentorweg
- Basel Minster
- Kunsthalle Basel
- Tinguely Fountain
- Zoo Basel
- Museum Tinguely
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Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Basel for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.
Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Gate Of Spalen. This intriguing historical landmark is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Basel Minster, one of the city’s best highlights.
Next, check out Kunsthalle Basel, one of the most frequently visited places to see in Basel. This art gallery is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Tinguely Fountain. Wander around and soak in the picture-perfect atmosphere this art installation offers. Then, head to Basel Zoo, a top-rated zoo that adds another dimension to your day. Finally, visit the worthwhile Museum Tinguely, the last of our attraction recommendations for today.
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.
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.
Don’t miss out on dining at Essential by Dorint Basel City, a top-rated dining destination in Basel. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Hasenburg, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Smilla Café. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Basel this evening.
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.
Say good night to Basel and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Switzerland!
Day 3
- Basel
- Lucerne
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Drive 103 km, 1 hour 55 min
- Swiss Museum of Transport
- Hofkirche St. Leodegar
- Bourbaki Panorama Lucerne
- Lion Monument Lucerne
- Chapel Bridge
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 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 Lucerne. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Swiss Museum Of Transport. This well-known museum is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Church Of St. Leodegar, one of the town’s best highlights.
Next, check out Bourbaki-panorama (building), one of the most often recommended places to see in Basel. This museum is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Lion Monument Lucerne. Wander around and soak in the historic atmosphere this monument offers. Then, head to Chapel Bridge, a top-rated historical landmark that adds another dimension to your day.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Lucerne. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Lucerne. 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.
Make sure to reserve a table at Valentino, an iconic dining spot in Lucerne. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Restaurant Weisses Schloss, a popular restaurant in Lucerne. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Bolero, a hidden gem nestled in Lucerne. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Bar 58. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Blue Bar & Smokers Lounge, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Penthouse provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
Say good night to Lucerne and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Switzerland!
Day 4
- Lucerne
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Drive 95 km, 1 hour 44 min
- Nature and Animal Park Goldau
- Männliturm
- Nölliturm
- Spreuerbrücke
- Lucerne Needle Dam
- Mount Pilatus
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On day 4 of your road trip in Switzerland, you’ll start and end your day in Lucerne, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the town. Since you will return to Lucerne for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Goldau and Lucerne to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Lucerne, featuring fun adventures, natural wonders, and scenic views. Start at Nature And Animal Park Goldau, a worthwhile zoo in the town. Then, head to Männliturm and soak in the ambiance of this picture-perfect monument.
There are many interesting places to see in Lucerne, and when you are ready for more, go to Nölliturm. This is one of the town’s most increasingly popular culturally significant spots of interest. After exploring the monument, visit the often recommended Spreuer Bridge, Lucerne. Not far away, you'll also find Lucerne Needle Dam. This historical landmark is a romantic highlight in Lucerne. Before wrapping up your self-guided sightseeing tour, head to Mount Pilatus, an underrated mountain range in the town.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Lucerne and your accommodation.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Lucerne. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Don’t miss out on dining at Ampersand, a top-rated dining destination in Lucerne. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Mr. Pickwick Pub Luzern, another top spot with a mouthwatering 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 a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Lucerne this evening.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Switzerland!
Day 5
- Lucerne
- Interlaken
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Drive 78 km, 1 hour 37 min
- Ballenberg, Swiss Open-Air Museum
- Giessbach Waterfalls
- Lake Brienz
- Statue Of Yash Chopra
- Höhematte
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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 Schwanden bei Brienz, Axalp, and Interlaken. In the evening, you’ll end up in Interlaken, where you will stay for 2 nights.
Immerse yourself in Lucerne’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Ballenberg, Swiss Open-air Museum. This historic museum is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the serene features of Giessbach Waterfalls, a must-visit waterfall in the village.
In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Lake Brienz, a worthwhile lake. For a change of scene, check out Yash Chopra Statue, known for its symbolic features. We also recommend visiting Höhematte Interlaken. This park is a must for anyone looking to experience the village to the fullest.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Interlaken. Interlaken 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 Interlaken. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Savor the flavors at Coop Restaurant Interlaken Ost, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Taj Palace beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider OX Restaurant & Grill. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Interlaken tonight.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Brasserie 17, a top-rated bar in the area.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Switzerland and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 6
- Interlaken
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Drive 71 km, 1 hour 48 min
- Trümmelbach Falls
- Staubbach Falls
- Harderkulm
- St. Beatus Caves
- Lake Thun
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On day 6 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Interlaken, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate town. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Mürren, Lauterbrunnen, Harderkulm, and Beatenberg. You still have 1 night left in Interlaken.
Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders in the charming village of Interlaken. Your adventure starts at Trümmelbach Falls, an often recommended local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Staubbachfall Waterfall. This locally appreciated waterfall is known for its mesmerizing appeal.
After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Interlaken's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Harderkulm. This mesmerizing observation deck offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. St. Beatus-höhlen, Swiss Caves is also worth visiting, along with Lake Thun. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Interlaken.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Interlaken. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Pizzeria Horn, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Indian Tandoori offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Chalet Beizli. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Interlaken.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Switzerland!
Day 7
- Interlaken
- Montreux
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Drive 171 km, 2 hours 38 min
- Rochers de Naye
- Chillon Castle
- Promenade sur les quais de Montreux
- Freddie Mercury statue
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Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in Switzerland. Today you will explore Montreux, 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 Montreux. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Start by visiting Rochers De Naye, a prime spot to begin your journey. This mesmerizing mountain range is sure to impress. Next on your list is Chillon Castle, another must-visit landmark and well-known castle renowned for its romantic features.
While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Interlaken by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Promenade Sur Les Quais De Montreux. This awe-inspiring boardwalk is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Interlaken experience. We also recommend visiting Freddie Mercury Statue, a beloved monument.
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.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Montreux's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
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 your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Riva Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Funky Claude's Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance.
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.
Day 8
- Montreux
- Basel
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Drive 210 km, 3 hours 3 min
- La Maison du Gruyère
- HR Giger Museum
- Castle of the counts of Gruyères
- Gorges de la Jogne
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On day 8 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Switzerland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Pringy, Gruyères, and Broc. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Basel, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Montreux, including a museum, a castle, and a canyon. Start your day at La Maison Du Gruyère. This historic museum is a beloved place to see in Montreux. Then, wander over to Hr Giger Museum. If noteworthy sites excite you, this museum will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Château De Gruyères. This visually striking castle is a favorite among visitors.
Montreux offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Gorges De La Jogne is an underrated spot in the village that will captivate you with its unique charm.
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 wonderful meal at Hotel Les Trois Rois, a top-rated dining spot 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 might also want to book a table at Restaurant Atelier (im Teufelhof). Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Basel.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Switzerland!
Day 9
- Basel - Departure day
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- Freie Strasse
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Day 9 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.
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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