Relaxed 11-Day Switzerland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Basel to Zurich and Schaffhausen

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Photo of riverside of Rhine in Basel dominated by majestic building of Munster church, Switzerland.
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Discover stunning scenery and hidden gems on this 11-day relaxed road trip in Switzerland! Basel, Linn, Habsburg, Aarau, Zurich, Kloten, Winterthur, Schaffhausen, and Neuhausen await with vibrant culture and lasting memories as you unwind on this self-drive vacation.

Travel freely with this relaxed self-drive package in Switzerland, designed for comfort and exploration. Spend 5 nights in Basel, 4 nights in Zurich, and 1 night in Schaffhausen, staying at top-rated hotels near the heart of each city. Between drives, indulge in local cuisine, sip refreshing drinks, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere at popular restaurants and bars along your road trip route in Switzerland.

Your journey starts in Basel, where your rental car with CDW insurance will be ready for pickup. Choose a vehicle that suits your style, then set off on your 11-day relaxed road trip in Switzerland to explore its rich culture, fascinating history, and stunning landscapes.

Every stop on this leisurely self-drive holiday comes with handpicked accommodations that make relaxation effortless. Choose from elegant 5-star hotels with breathtaking views or comfortable 3-star stays that offer excellent value, all providing a welcoming retreat after a day on the road.

With your self-drive itinerary in Switzerland already planned, you’ll enjoy the country’s most celebrated sights without the rush. Marvel at the stunning Rhine Falls and soak in the atmosphere of the magnificent Zürich Zoo.

Enjoy each stop as you explore the history, architecture, and character of each destination on this Switzerland road trip itinerary for 11 days.

As you travel between destinations, you’ll have plenty of time to explore local markets and boutique shops. These stops give you the chance to find unique souvenirs, taste regional specialties, and experience everyday life in Switzerland.

If you want to make your 11-day relaxed self-drive tour in Switzerland even more memorable, add optional tours or activities. Join a guided excursion, discover hidden neighborhoods, or spend an afternoon in your favorite market. Each choice deepens your connection to the places you visit.

Alongside these experiences, your laid-back self-drive package in Switzerland includes 10 nights in comfortable hotels, a rental car for 11 days, and convenient access to nearby dining options. You can also add flights and entry tickets to shape the trip exactly how you want it. With 24/7 travel support and a mobile app keeping your itinerary and documents organized, you can enjoy a relaxed drive and savor every mile of the road ahead.

Turn your travel plans into reality. Book your 11-day relaxed self-drive road trip in Switzerland today and enjoy a journey filled with discovery, freedom, and unforgettable moments!

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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Pick-up: 10:00
Drop-off: 10:00

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Day 1

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 4 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. Taking a stroll in the city center is a great alternative. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

When you're ready for some downtime, make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Basel. Make yourself at home and unwind 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.

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.

Raise a toast as you look back on the highlights of today’s relaxed road trip in Switzerland. Enjoy your first taste of Basel as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.

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Day 2

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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Switzerland makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun road trip experience. 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.

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.

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.

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Basel
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Drive 2 km, 29 min

  • Wettstein Bridge
  • Basel Minster
  • Palatinate (Pfalz) Viewing Platform
  • Museum of Natural History Basel
  • Freie Strasse
  • More

A visit to Freie Strasse is a must on the agenda today. This street is full of hidden gems and character, perfect for a leisurely stroll. Plus, you’ll be close to some of the city’s most famous sights.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Switzerland by joining a traveler-approved tour in Basel. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Basel that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in Switzerland more memorable.

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 Basel, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

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.

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

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Basel
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Drive 12 km, 48 min

  • Dreiländereck
  • Museum Tinguely
  • Basel Paper Mill
  • Fine Arts Museum Basel
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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 city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

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

Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible, relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Basel!

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Basel
  • Zurich
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Drive 134 km, 2 hours 15 min

  • Linner Linden
  • Aargau Jura Park
  • Habsburg Castle
  • Wildpark Roggenhausen
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Day 5 of your relaxed road trip in 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!

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.

In Zurich, you’ll find plenty of places to unwind after a day on the road. Our top recommendations go perfectly with your laid-back road trip in Switzerland.

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.

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

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

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Zurich
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Drive 1 km, 22 min

  • Lindenhof
  • Swiss National Museum
  • Old Town (Altstadt)
  • Bahnhofstrasse
  • Niederdorf
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Set aside time today to explore Old Town (Altstadt), a standout neighborhood that reflects the essence of the city. While you're there, you'll also be within reach of some of the city's top landmarks, making it easy to maximize your day.

Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Switzerland more special is by joining unique tours and 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.

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

Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across Switzerland.

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Zurich
  • More

Drive 10 km, 46 min

  • Zürich Zoo
  • Kunsthaus Zürich
  • Grossmünster
  • Zürich Opera House
  • More

Switzerland makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun road trip experience. Aside from amazing sights, Switzerland also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

Exploring the food culture in Zurich 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.

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.

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

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Day 8

Day 8

  • Zurich
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Drive 9 km, 50 min

  • FIFA Museum
  • Arboretum Zürich
  • Chinagarten Zürich
  • Zürichhorn
  • Botanical Garden
  • More

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Switzerland by joining a traveler-approved tour in Basel. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Basel that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in Switzerland more memorable.

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.

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.

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Zurich as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip with a toast. Cheers to a memorable, leisurely self-drive holiday in Switzerland!

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Day 9

Day 9

  • Zurich
  • Schaffhausen
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Drive 132 km, 2 hours 10 min

  • Üetliberg
  • Uetliberg Lookout Tower
  • Observation Deck B
  • Aathal Dinosaur Museum
  • Swiss Science Center Technorama
  • More

Day 9 of your leisurely self-drive tour in Switzerland offers another chance for an in-depth travel experience. You’ll stay in Schaffhausen for 1 night.

After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Schaffhausen. Staying in the town gives you a comfortable, welcoming place to recharge during your laid-back road trip in Switzerland.

Exploring the food culture in Schaffhausen 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.

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

Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in Switzerland!

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Day 10

Day 10

  • Schaffhausen
  • Basel
  • More

Drive 101 km, 1 hour 46 min

  • Reformierte Kirche St Johann
  • Kloster Allerheiligen, Schaffhausen
  • Museum zu Allerheiligen Schaffhausen
  • Rhine Falls
  • More

Day 10 of your easy, relaxed road trip through Switzerland lets you travel at your own pace and visit multiple places in a single day. By evening, drive toward the Basel, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 1 night.

Continue your laid-back road trip in Switzerland as you make your way to Basel. Here, you’ll find top hotels and accommodations in the city, perfect for relaxing and recharging.

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.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Basel. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Basel as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip with a toast. Cheers to a memorable, leisurely self-drive holiday in Switzerland!

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Day 11

Day 11

  • Basel - Departure day
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  • Tinguely Fountain
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Day 11 of your relaxed road trip in Switzerland is your departure day. If you’re flying home, return your rental car with time to spare.

Over a good meal, take a moment to unwind and reflect on the past 11 days of your relaxed road trip.

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.

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How it works

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Secure your spot
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Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.
Secure your spot
Confirm your package instantly and lock in the best rate with secure payment and guaranteed availability.
Get instant confirmation
Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.

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Your trip is protected, personalized, and priced right. No surprises, no stress.

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