Relaxed 10-Day Switzerland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Basel to Zurich and Schaffhausen
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Description
Sit back and enjoy a relaxed 10-day road trip in Switzerland with this laid-back self-drive vacation.
This self-drive package allows you to travel through picture-perfect landscapes in Switzerland at a relaxed pace. Get a dose of comfort, fun, and recreation in Basel, Münchenstein, Zurich, Winterthur, Schaffhausen, Neuhausen, and Riehen. Make yourself at home at top-rated hotels and stay 4 nights in Basel, 4 nights in Zurich, and 1 night in Schaffhausen. Finally, taste the local food and enjoy a refreshing drink at the most popular restaurants and bars along your road trip route in Switzerland.
Freedom of choice is key to a relaxing road trip in Switzerland. For your self-drive vacation, we’ll offer you a selection of the best rental vehicles with CDW insurance. Upon arrival in Basel, you’ll collect your rental car of choice. From there, you’ll begin your 10-day journey across Switzerland and discover its unique culture, history, and diverse scenery.
Experience the essence of leisurely self-drive exploration across Switzerland with our handpicked selection of accommodations. From relaxed stays at renowned 5-star hotels offering magnificent views to comfortable 3-star options that cater to budget-conscious travelers, we ensure your journey is optimized for relaxation and comfort. Discover the perfect place to stay and unwind as you embark on a laid-back adventure in Switzerland.
We’ll introduce you to some of the best travel destinations in Switzerland. This relaxed road trip features the stunning Rhine Falls. Another highlight of this self-drive tour is the captivating Zürich Zoo.
Traveling leisurely through Switzerland means you could spend as much time as you want at the magnificent Basel Zoo. With this travel plan, you could also soak in the atmosphere of the memorable Lindenhof. Get close to the spectacular Grossmünster and the wonderful Swiss National Museum. You’ll have plenty of time to take in each attraction's unique features, learn its unique history, and appreciate it to the fullest.
Enjoy strolling through Switzerland's shopping hotspots near your accommodation. Visit shops, discover the locals’ way of life, or try various specialties. Don't forget to bring home a piece of the country that will remind you of your relaxing vacation in Switzerland.
Between sightseeing, you can make the most of your downtime and join a popular tour in Switzerland. This relaxed road trip also gives you plenty of time to stroll through Switzerland's shopping hotspots. Through these experiences, you'll have plenty of opportunities to discover the locals’ way of life and soak in the rich cultural heritage of the Switzerland.
This self-drive vacation package includes everything you need for a stress-free, easy road trip through Switzerland. You’ll have a cozy place to stay for 9 nights, with a selection of top-rated breakfast and restaurant options nearby. We'll also provide you with the best rental car you can use throughout the 10 days of your self-drive road trip in Switzerland. On top of all that, you also have the option to add flights to your travel plan and personalize each day of your itinerary by adding tours and tickets.
This self-drive package includes 24/7 travel support and a step-by-step guide. You can access the guide at any point of your journey through our mobile app, where you can also keep and organize your travel documents.
Spend an amazing 10-day vacation in Switzerland and get to know more about this fantastic destination. Choose your travel dates and plan a laid-back and relaxed 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 relaxed road trip through Switzerland starts when you reach the incredible city of Basel, where you'll stay for 3 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Basel and begin your adventure in Switzerland.
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 dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Basel and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.
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 as you look back into the highlights of today’s laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in Switzerland. Enjoy your first taste of Basel as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.
Day 2
- Basel
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Drive 14 km, 1 hour 5 min
- Grand Casino Basel
- Kannenfeld Park
- Spalentorweg
- University of Basel Botanical Garden
- Zoo Basel
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Day 2 of your relaxed road trip through Switzerland means 24 hours of making the best memories in Basel. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Basel. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Basel!
Today's adventure in Basel promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Grand Casino Basel. Then, enjoy Kannenfeldpark, another enchanting attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Gate Of Spalen, one of the city’s most frequently visited attractions, known for its picture-perfect features.
If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of University Of Basel Botanical Garden. This eye-catching botanical garden is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Basel Zoo, a locally renowned zoo, and take a stroll around the area.
Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Switzerland more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Basel offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.
Exploring the food culture in Basel offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.
Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Basel by reserving a table at Cheval Blanc by Peter Knogl. Renowned as a 3-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional classic french menu. For a different taste experience, head to roots, recognized for its delicious modern and seasonal dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit Stucki - Tanja Grandits, a local favorite known for its delightful creative and modern cuisine in Basel. 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.
Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Basel.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Consum, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, L'atelier provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Landestelle - Freiluft-loung & Bar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Look back at an amazing day filled with adventure in Switzerland. And don’t forget to get some rest so you can continue your relaxed holiday in Switzerland tomorrow with new energy.
Day 3
- Basel
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Drive 12 km, 48 min
- Dreiländereck
- Museum Tinguely
- Basel Paper Mill
- Fine Arts Museum Basel
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Day 3 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Basel, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Switzerland are extraordinary.
Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Basel, including a monument and a museum. Start your day with a visit to Dreiländereck. This increasingly popular monument is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Museum Tinguely, which may be one of the most noteworthy places you will experience today.
One of the best things about exploring Basel on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Basel Paper Mill, a locally appreciated museum in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Fine Arts Museum Basel.
Switzerland makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun exploration. Aside from amazing sights, Switzerland also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.
When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Basel, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Hotel Les Trois Rois, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try HANS IM GLÜCK - BASEL Steinenvorstadt? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Restaurant Atelier (im Teufelhof) as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Basel.
As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Basel’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Switzerland.
Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in Switzerland!
Day 4
- Basel
- Zurich
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Drive 85 km, 1 hour 27 min
- Museum of Natural History Basel
- Palatinate (Pfalz) Viewing Platform
- Basel Minster
- Wettstein Bridge
- Merian Gärten
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Day 4 of your self-drive tour in Switzerland is your opportunity to see and experience the diversity of the country. You’ll stay in Zurich for 4 nights. Along the route of your relaxed road trip, you can get a glimpse of the locals’ way of life and visit some of the most amazing locations in Switzerland.
Today's adventure in Basel promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Museum Of Natural History Basel. This photogenic museum is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Basel Palatinate "pfalz" Observation Platform, another visually striking attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Basel Minster, one of the city’s most increasingly popular attractions, known for its history-steeped features.
After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Zurich. Staying in the city enhances your laid-back road trip experience in Switzerland by offering a comfortable and welcoming environment to recharge in this charming destination.
Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Zurich has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.
Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Zurich by booking a table at Widder Restaurant. This popular restaurant holds 2 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern french and contemporary cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to IGNIV Zürich by Andreas Caminada, celebrated for its delectable sharing and modern menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover The Restaurant, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing creative and modern menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.
If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in Switzerland.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Widder Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Rio Bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Cp First - Cocktailbar & Lounge is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
Soak in the unique atmosphere of Zurich as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip through Switzerland with a toast. Cheers to a memorable leisurely self-drive holiday in Switzerland!
Day 5
- Zurich
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Drive 1 km, 23 min
- Swiss National Museum
- Lindenhof
- Old Town (Altstadt)
- Bahnhofstrasse
- Niederdorf
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On day 5 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Switzerland, you’ll go deep into Zurich, where you'll stay for 3 nights, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Zurich, and meet locals along the way!
Old Town (Altstadt) is a neighborhood that stands out as one of the must-see places in Zurich. Take a moment to explore its distinct atmosphere, and don’t miss the popular sightseeing spots just a short walk away. For another highlight, head to Bahnhofstrasse, a street offering its own unique experiences.
Start by visiting Swiss National Museum, a prime spot to begin your journey. This visually striking museum is sure to impress. Next on your list is Lindenhof, another must-visit landmark and popular historical landmark renowned for its enchanting features.
Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about Switzerland. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in Switzerland and ensure the experience of a lifetime.
When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Switzerland, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Zurich.
Savor the flavors at Cantinetta Antinori, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, El Lokal beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Aurora. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Zurich tonight.
Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Zurich. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Eldorado, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Gotthard Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, La Stanza also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
A leisurely self-drive holiday in Zurich can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in Switzerland!
Day 6
- Zurich
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Drive 14 km, 57 min
- Botanical Garden
- Zürichhorn
- Chinagarten Zürich
- Zürich Opera House
- Zürich Zoo
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Day 6 of your relaxed road trip through Switzerland means 24 hours of making the best memories in Zurich. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Zurich. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Zurich!
Today’s route brings fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. The first attraction of today is Botanical Garden. This intriguing botanical garden is a majestic place to see in Zurich. Continue your discovery at Zürichhorn, a serene park with stories to tell.
As you stroll around Zurich, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Chinagarten Zürich. This up-and-coming botanical garden offers a romantic encounter with Zurich. Next, make your way to Zürich Opera House to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Zürich Zoo, an interesting zoo that’s sure to impress. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Zurich.
Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Switzerland by joining a traveler-approved tour in Zurich. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Zurich that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in Switzerland more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Zurich to find the best options for you!
Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Zurich has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.
Don’t miss out on dining at Alpenrose, a top-rated dining destination in Zurich. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Kafi Dihei, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Weisses Rössli. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Zurich this evening.
If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Zurich and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Bar Babalu stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Kon-tiki Coffeeshop & Bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Nelson is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.
Soak in the unique atmosphere of Zurich as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip through Switzerland with a toast. Cheers to a memorable leisurely self-drive holiday in Switzerland!
Day 7
- Zurich
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Drive 5 km, 48 min
- Kunsthaus Zürich
- Grossmünster
- Fraumünster Church
- FIFA Museum
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Day 7 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Zurich, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Switzerland are extraordinary.
Zurich is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and scenic views! Start at Kunsthaus Zürich, an often recommended art gallery that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Grossmünster, enchanting visitors with its breathtaking appeal. Continue your exploration at Fraumünster. This church is one of the city’s most worthwhile 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 Fifa Museum.
Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Switzerland more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Zurich offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.
After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Viadukt, a popular restaurant in Zurich. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Zurich at La Pasta, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Best Western Hotel Spirgarten. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Zurich tonight.
If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in Switzerland.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Ebrietas Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Total Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Zurich. Rimini Bar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in Switzerland!
Day 8
- Zurich
- Schaffhausen
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Drive 119 km, 2 hours 16 min
- Üetliberg
- Uetliberg Lookout Tower
- Aathal Dinosaur Museum
- Wildpark Bruderhaus Winterthur
- Swiss Science Center Technorama
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Day 8 of your relaxed road trip across the beautiful country of Switzerland will take you on a self-paced journey to more than one incredible place in one day. See some of the best attractions in Switzerland, taste the most delectable foods and exquisite drinks, and make incredible memories as you go!
Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Zurich, including a mountain range, an observation deck, a museum, a wildlife reserve, a science center and much more! Start your adventure at Üetliberg. This beloved mountain range is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Aussichtsturm Uetliberg - Top Of Zurich located in Zurich for another exciting encounter.
Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Aathal Dinosaur Museum. Its photogenic features will captivate you. After the museum, continue your tour of the hamlet with a visit to Wildpark Bruderhaus. Visitors usually appreciate the awe-inspiring features of this wildlife reserve. Next up is Swiss Science Center Technorama, a highly recommended science center.
Continue your laid-back road trip exploration of the best attractions in Switzerland at Schaffhausen. Select from top hotels and accommodations in the town to recharge and rejuvenate.
Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Switzerland. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Schaffhausen, explore the town like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.
Set out on a gastronomic journey in Schaffhausen by reserving a table at D'Chuchi. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of modern cuisine. Looking for something different? Theaterrestaurant offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Schaffhausen.
Experience the amazing nightlife in Schaffhausen and unwind at the coolest bars in the town.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Eckhaus Gmbh stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Bar No13 offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Tabaco Lounge is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.
A leisurely self-drive holiday in Sellenbüren can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in Switzerland!
Day 9
- Schaffhausen
- Basel
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Drive 109 km, 2 hours 11 min
- Museum zu Allerheiligen Schaffhausen
- Schwabentor
- Rhine Falls
- Beyeler Foundation
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Day 9 of your leisurely self-drive tour in Switzerland is another opportunity for an in-depth travel experience in the country. On this refreshing new day, you’ll travel from Schaffhausen and continue your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in the town of Neuhausen and the town of Riehen. You’ll stay in Basel for 1 night.
Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and historic treasures. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Museum Zu Allerheiligen. This increasingly popular museum is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Schwabentor, one of the town’s best highlights.
Next, check out Rhine Falls, one of the most spectacular places to see in Schaffhausen. This waterfall is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Beyeler Foundation. Wander around and soak in the picture-perfect atmosphere this art gallery offers.
In the city of Basel, you’ll find plenty of stay options that will accommodate your need for rest and relaxation after spending your day on the road. Our top recommendations perfectly complement your relaxed road trip vacation in Switzerland.
Exploring the food culture in Basel offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.
Enjoy a lovely meal at KLARA 13 AG, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Warteck Brewery Basel is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Mr. Pickwick Pub Basel. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Basel tonight.
Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Basel.
Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in Switzerland!
Day 10
- Basel - Departure day
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- Tinguely Fountain
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Day 10 of your relaxed road trip in Switzerland is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in Basel.
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.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Tinguely Fountain. This intriguing art installation is a popular place to see in the city.
Unwind and look back at the past 10 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Basel or just grab something light to keep you going.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Restaurant Safran Zunft Basel, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Restaurant Fiorentina Basel? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu.
Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Basel and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 10-day relaxed road trip in Switzerland is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.
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