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.

A blend of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views await you in Basel on today’s itinerary. First up is the intriguing church, Basel Minster. Afterward, continue to Fine Arts Museum Basel, a museum every traveler should visit.

As you explore Basel’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Tinguely Fountain. This underrated art installation is an essential stop. Following that, head to Basel Zoo, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.

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.

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

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Bern by securing a table at ZOE. An esteemed 1-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional vegetarian and modern menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Steinhalle, famous for its scrumptious creative and international dishes. This 1-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Wein & Sein, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite modern cuisine in Bern. Located in the heart of the city, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for modern cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Zum Kuckuck offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Piazza Bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Die Taube is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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.

On day 3 of your road trip in Switzerland, you’ll start and end your day in Bern, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Bern for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Bern, Gruyères, and Pringy to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Bern, including a historical landmark, a zoo, a castle, a museum and much more! Start your adventure at Unesco - Bern Old Town. This curiosity-inducing historical landmark is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Bear Pit located in Bern for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Château De Gruyères. Its visually striking features will captivate you. After the castle, continue your tour of the city with a visit to La Maison Du Gruyère. Visitors usually appreciate the history-steeped features of this museum.

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

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Volver BarTapasCafé, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Gourmanderie Moléson offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, McCarthy's Irish Pub Bern is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Bern.

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.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Switzerland!

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 4 vibrant destinations - Beatenberg, Harderkulm, Schwanden bei Brienz, and Interlaken. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Interlaken. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Bern, including a cave system, an observation deck, a canopy walk, a museum, a park and much more! Start your adventure at St. Beatus-höhlen, Swiss Caves. This worthwhile cave system is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Harderkulm located in Bern for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Titlis Cliff Walk. Its gorgeous features will captivate you. After the canopy walk, continue your tour of the village with a visit to Ballenberg, Swiss Open-air Museum. Visitors usually appreciate the breathtaking features of this museum. Next up is Höhematte Interlaken, a highly recommended park.

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 explore more of Interlaken, 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.

Experience a harmony of flavors at Radius by Stefan Beer in Interlaken by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 1-star Michelin status, Radius by Stefan Beer offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious regional and swiss menu. If you're looking to mix things up, Taj Palace offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Brasserie 17, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting.

Say good night to Interlaken and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Switzerland!

On day 6 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 Zurich, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly 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 locally renowned 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 visually striking 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.

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

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Zurich by reserving a table at Widder Restaurant. Renowned as a 2-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional modern french and contemporary menu. For a different taste experience, head to IGNIV Zürich by Andreas Caminada, recognized for its delicious sharing and modern dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit The Restaurant, a local favorite known for its delightful creative and modern cuisine in Zurich. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 2 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning creative and modern foodies seeking culinary excellence.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Widder Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Rio Bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Cp First - Cocktailbar & Lounge is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

Day 7 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Zurich for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

A top thing to do today is to explore Old Town (Altstadt), a must-see neighborhood in Zurich. It's the perfect starting point for touring the top attractions in the area. You can also visit Bahnhofstrasse, an ideal street for continued sightseeing.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Whether you decide to explore Zurich on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Lindenhof is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this romantic historical landmark before continuing your journey. Zürich Zoo is your next stop. This captivating zoo is one of the best-rated sights in Zurich.

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 explore more of Zurich, 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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Cantinetta Antinori, an iconic dining spot in Zurich. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of El Lokal, a popular restaurant in Zurich. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Aurora, a hidden gem nestled in Zurich. 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 Eldorado. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Gotthard Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, La Stanza provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Say good night to Zurich and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Switzerland!

Dive into day 8 of your remarkable road trip in Switzerland. Today you will explore Sellenbüren, Kloten, Winterthur, and Neuhausen, 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.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Zurich, featuring fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at Üetliberg, an increasingly popular mountain range in the hamlet. Then, head to Aussichtsturm Uetliberg - Top Of Zurich and soak in the ambiance of this romantic observation deck.

There are many interesting places to see in Zurich, and when you are ready for more, go to Observation Deck B. This is one of the hamlet’s most worthwhile instagrammable spots of interest. After exploring the observation deck, visit the worthwhile Swiss Science Center Technorama. Not far away, you'll also find Rhine Falls. This waterfall is a romantic highlight in Zurich.

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.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Cheval Blanc by Peter Knogl, a 3-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible classic french menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, roots is one of the best restaurants for modern and seasonal cuisine in Basel. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Stucki - Tanja Grandits. As a top-rated establishment with 2 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for creative and modern cuisine in the city.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Consum. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, L'atelier offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Landestelle - Freiluft-loung & Bar, another top-rated bar in the area.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Switzerland!