Relaxed 11-Day Switzerland Road Trip from Basel to Lucerne and Zurich

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.

Take the opportunity to see middle bridge. This attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 6,025 visitors.

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.

When you're hungry and ready to take a break from your laid-back adventure, treat yourself to a delicious meal at one of the best restaurants in Basel.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Basel by booking a table at Cheval Blanc by Peter Knogl. This popular restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of classic french cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to roots, celebrated for its delectable modern and seasonal menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Stucki - Tanja Grandits, 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.

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Schall und Rauch Bar.

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.

On day 2 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Switzerland, you’ll go deep into Basel, where you'll stay for 2 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 Basel, and meet locals along the way!

Kick off the day at Basel Paper Mill, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This paper museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 1,409 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Wettsteinbrücke. Wettsteinbrücke is a road bridge with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 942 reviews.

Fine Arts Museum Basel is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,049 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Basel Zoo. This zoo is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 15,178 visitors. Visiting Basel Zoo means you'll be one of 2,012,511 people who do so every year.

Exploring one unique site after another provides you the much-needed variety during your leisurely self-drive tour across Switzerland. But to satisfy your curiosity or need for adventure, we recommend you add excursions in today’s agenda. You have a great selection of popular activities to choose from in Switzerland.

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.

As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at HANS IM GLÜCK - BASEL Steinenvorstadt, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, KLARA 13 AG 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.

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.

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 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Basel, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Switzerland are extraordinary.

Journey into the unknown at Dreiländereck, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 1,756 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Grand Casino Basel is a recommended place to visit. This casino is rated an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars in 1,772 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Basel is Museum of Natural History Basel. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,084 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Basel offers an experience you will remember.

Basel Minster is another popular stop on travelers' itineraries in Basel. This cathedral promises memorable moments of exploring. Other travelers have rated this attraction 4.6 out of 5 stars in 7,442 reviews.

Lastly, don't miss out on Palatinate (Pfalz) Viewing Platform. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 749 local and international travelers, it's a popular place to visit.

Tours often allow you to see beyond what books and social media feature about Basel, its culture, and people. So for a more meaningful travel experience in the city, we recommend you join one of the most popular tours available for your relaxed road trip across Switzerland.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Basel has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Savor the flavors at Restaurant Fiorentina Basel, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Unternehmen Mitte beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider WERK 8. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Basel tonight.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Basel and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.

Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in Switzerland!

Day 4 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!

After soaking in Basel’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Lucerne. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 3 min. When you arrive in Lucerne, it's time to take a break from the road.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Pharmacy Museum of the University of Basel, a remarkable museum where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 349 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at University of Basel Botanical Garden. This botanical garden has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,078 travelers.

Gate of Spalen is another must-visit attraction. This renowned tower offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,475 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

Beyond the above-mentioned sites, you also have the opportunity to visit Kannenfeldpark. This well-loved park boasts a 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 2,501 reviews.

When there’s still energy left for exploring, Museum Tinguely awaits. If you’ve been interested in experiencing an art museum, this is a top pick rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,311 previous visitors.

You’ll be staying at the incredible town of Lucerne in this laid-back road trip in Switzerland. You'll stay here for 4 nights.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Lucerne has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the town.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Lucerne by reserving a table at Lucide. Renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional contemporary and classic menu. For a different taste experience, head to Colonnade, recognized for its delicious modern french and seasonal dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. You might also want to secure a reservation at Mr. Pickwick Pub Luzern. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Lucerne this evening.

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Lucerne and take the pulse of the town’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Bar 59, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Bar 58 is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Café Tacuba Neustadt is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in Switzerland!

Day 5 of your relaxed road trip through Switzerland means 24 hours of making the best memories in Lucerne. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by the town of Lucerne!

When you're ready to see some sights, Kunstmuseum Luzern is a great place to start. This art museum is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 433 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Church of St. Leodegar. This church building has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,649 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Bourbaki-Panorama (building). The museum has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 893 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting Lion Monument Lucerne. This sculpture is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 20,294 reviews.

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.

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 town for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. Make sure to reserve a table at Bar bei Miguel, 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 la vie en rose, 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 Restaurant Schiff, a hidden gem nestled in Lucerne. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Lucerne.

Keep the evening going at Blue Bar & Smokers Lounge, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Penthouse, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks.

Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in Switzerland!

On day 6 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Switzerland, you’ll go deep into Lucerne, where you'll stay for 2 nights, and see some of the town’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the town's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Lucerne, and meet locals along the way!

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Schirmerturm. This much-appreciated observation tower is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 197 reviews.

Next up is Museggmauer. This fortification has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,197 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Zytturm. This tower has been rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 802 reviews.

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.

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 Lucerne, explore the town like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Grand Casino Luzern, a top-rated dining destination in Lucerne. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Max Restaurant & Bar, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Stadtkeller. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Lucerne this evening.

After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Lucerne and unwind at some of the best bars in the town.

Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back, relaxed road trip adventure across Switzerland.

Day 7 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Lucerne, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Switzerland are extraordinary.

Drop by the renowned Swiss Museum of Transport. This popular technology museum has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 11,571 visitors. Based on recent data, this attraction is visited by more than 562,605 travelers every year.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Verkehrshaus Planetarium. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 135 visitors, this sightseeing destination deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Strandbad Lido Luzern. This sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 1,852 reviews.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Switzerland by joining a traveler-approved tour in Lucerne. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Lucerne 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 town of Lucerne to find the best options for you!

Exploring the food culture in Lucerne 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 town.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Grottino 1313, a highly-rated dining destination in Lucerne. If you're eager to try something different, consider Suite small plates & cocktails, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at tibits Luzern. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Lucerne this evening.

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.

Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in Switzerland!

Day 8 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 2 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.

Zurich’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Lucerne behind. This drive usually takes around 40 min. Zurich welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Drop by the renowned Sammlung Rosengart Luzern. This popular art museum has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 785 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Chapel Bridge. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 29,995 visitors, this sightseeing destination deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Jesuit Church, Lucerne. This church building has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 1,665 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is Lucerne Needle Dam. This sightseeing destination and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 331 local and international travelers.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Spreuer Bridge, Lucerne. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 4,066 travelers, this wooden bridge is an attraction many avid travelers highly recommend visiting while in Lucerne.

When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you’ll have a relaxed time at Zurich. Here, you can choose from the best selection of hotels and places to stay as you get to know more about this spectacular city.

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.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Zurich by securing a table at Widder Restaurant. Esteemed as a 2-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional modern french and contemporary menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit IGNIV Zürich by Andreas Caminada, famous for its scrumptious sharing and modern dishes. This 2-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover The Restaurant, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite creative and modern cuisine in Zurich. Located in the heart of the city, this 2-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for creative and modern cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Zurich. The bars in Zurich make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Rio Bar. Alternatively, go to La Stanza, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Kon-Tiki Coffeeshop & Bar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in Switzerland!

Day 9 of your relaxed road trip through Switzerland means 24 hours of making the best memories in Zurich. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by the city of Zurich!

Make Swiss National Museum your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this organization an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 8,085 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Lindenhof. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 11,365 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this square every year.

Grossmünster is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This church building has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 8,297 visitors.

When you’re finished at Grossmünster, the perfect next stop is Zürich Zoo. This zoo is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 26,267 reviews.

Get a more in-depth understanding of Zurich by checking out the amazing selection of tours and excursions you can add to your relaxed road trip itinerary. Explore more of the city’s wonders, create memorable experiences, and join laid-back to challenging activities.

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Aurora, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Kafi Dihei offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Weisses Rössli. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Zurich.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Zurich.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Ebrietas Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Rimini Bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Switzerland!

Day 10 of your easy and relaxed road trip through Switzerland gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience more than one place in one day. You will start your day by exploring some of the best sights in the town of Neuhausen. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Basel, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 1 night.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Schaffhausen, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Neuhausen may take around 8 min. Upon your arrival in Neuhausen, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

When you're ready to see some sights, Rhine Falls is a great place to start. This waterfall is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 70,505 visitors.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Schaffhausen. This car ride takes around 41 min.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Kloster Allerheiligen, Schaffhausen. This extraordinary museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 140 visitors.

Next, make your way to Museum zu Allerheiligen. This top attraction is a museum with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 286 visitors.

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 delicious meal at Restaurant Boo Klybeck, a highly-rated dining destination in Basel. If you're eager to try something different, consider Flanagan's, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at KaBAR. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Basel this evening.

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back, relaxed road trip adventure across Switzerland.

Day 11 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.

As your final day in Switzerland unfolds, don’t miss the chance for a last-minute shopping spree in Basel’s shopping district. Your accommodation’s convenient location near the city’s shopping area offers the luxury of time, so you don’t have to limit yourself from leisurely strolling its streets amidst a collection of establishments.

Look for the perfect gift for your loved ones back home, or buy yourself a little keepsake to remind you of Switzerland. Keep the spirit of your trip to Switzerland alive with these special souvenirs.

If you'd rather pass the time visiting some attractions, this is your chance to go to places you may not have had the chance to explore yet.

Unwind and look back at the past 11 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.

Esteemed as a restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. If you're in the mood for something new, try Schlüsselzunft, another premier location with a delectable menu.

Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Basel and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 11-day relaxed road trip in Switzerland is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.