11-Day Switzerland Road Trip from Basel traveling east to Bern, Sion, Lugano, and Zurich

Say hello to Basel! Your exciting road trip through Switzerland is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Basel for 1 night before you continue your adventure!

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 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 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.

This local establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Known as a top-rated , it's a top choice in the city. Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at tibits, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Essential by Dorint Basel City? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Hotel Les Trois Rois as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Basel.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Schall und Rauch Bar, where the evening is just getting started.

Raise a toast to the start of your 11-day road trip in Switzerland!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your road trip in Switzerland. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Basel. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Bern, which will be your home away from home for 3 nights.

After soaking in Basel’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Bern. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 12 min. When you arrive in Bern, it's time to take a break from the road.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Basel Minster. This cathedral is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Basel, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 7,442 visitors.

Fine Arts Museum Basel is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,049 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Tinguely Fountain. Visitors have rated this park an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 4,117 reviews.

Basel Zoo, boasting an annual visitor count of up to 2,012,511 people, is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is a zoo rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 15,178 reviews.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Bern. Bern offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

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

This local establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Known as a top-rated , it's a top choice in the city. Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Brasserie Obstberg, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Süder? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Volver BarTapasCafé as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Bern.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Adrianos Bar & Café after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Switzerland.

Day 3 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Bern for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Bern Minster. This church building is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Bern, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,813 visitors.

UNESCO - Bern Old Town is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 4,755 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to bear pit. Visitors have rated this architectural structure an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 13,960 reviews.

Rose Garden Bern is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is an architectural structure rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 4,381 reviews.

One of the most unique ways of discovering what else Bern has to offer is by going on a top-rated tour. Be sure to check out all the experiences Bern offers and add your favorites to your Switzerland travel package below.

As you explore more of Bern, 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.

This -awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. This awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal. Make sure to reserve a table at McCarthy's Irish Pub Bern, an iconic dining spot in Bern. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Aarbergerhof, a popular restaurant in Bern. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Hotel Bellevue Palace, a hidden gem nestled in Bern. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Switzerland!

On day 4 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Bern, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate village. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Beatenberg, Harderkulm, Meiringen, Lammi, and Innertkirchen. You still have 1 night left in Bern.

Beatenberg’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Harderkulm behind. This drive usually takes around 20 min. Beatenberg welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Journey into the unknown at St. Beatus Caves, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable park has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 6,933 reviews.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Lammi, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Harderkulm. This drive usually takes around 43 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

When you're ready to see some sights, Harderkulm is a great place to start. This mountain is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 6,635 visitors.

Upon your arrival in Meiringen, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Take the opportunity to see Aare Gorge. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 3,257 visitors.

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

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

This local establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Known as a top-rated , it's a top choice in the city. Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at The BEEF Steakhouse & Bar, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try The Bowling Company AG? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Noa as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Bern.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Switzerland.

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Switzerland. Today you will explore Sion, Gruyères, and Pringy, 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 Sion. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Domaine des Iles. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,632 reviews.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Gruyères. This car ride takes around 54 min.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Gruyères Castle. This extraordinary museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 10,612 visitors.

Next, make your way to HR Giger Museum. This top attraction is a museum with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,762 visitors.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Sion, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the town.

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

Renowned as a restaurant, it offers an exceptional menu. This restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Nestled in the heart of the city, is an ideal choice for discerning foodies seeking culinary excellence. Enjoy a delicious meal at Stella marina, a top-rated dining destination in Sion. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider L'Enclos de Valère, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Pavillon des Sports. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Sion this evening.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Le Brésilien, known for its lively atmosphere. Le Boléro is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, The Dugout Sports Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Switzerland!

On day 6 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 Lugano, Fürgangen, and Melide. In the evening, you’ll end up in Lugano, where you will stay for 1 night.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Lugano Arte e Cultura. This museum building is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,055 visitors.

Parco Ciani is another popular attraction you could visit today. This urban park has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 10,286 visitors.

After soaking in Sion’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Fürgangen. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 12 min. When you arrive in Fürgangen, it's time to take a break from the road.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to GOMS Bridge (Hängebrücke Fürgangen - Mühlebach). This park is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Fürgangen, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 1,833 visitors.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Lugano, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Lugano. 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.

Renowned for its , this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of cuisine. This distinguished -recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. With an acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss. Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Lanchetta Lounge Bar & Pinsa. , an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Villa Sassa Hotel, Residence & Spa offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Bar Laura. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Lugano.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Il Fermento, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Bar Oops, a bar that offers unique local touches.

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

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Switzerland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Orselina, Lavertezzo, and Locarno. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Zurich, where you’ll be staying for 3 nights.

Set your GPS to Orselina and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 24 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Orselina beckons with new experiences!

When you're ready to see some sights, Madonna del Sasso is a great place to start. This church building is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,479 visitors.

Set your GPS to Lavertezzo and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 56 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Lavertezzo beckons with new experiences!

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Ponte dei Salti. This extraordinary stone arch bridge has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 6,917 visitors.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Zurich. Zurich offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

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.

Celebrated as a restaurant, it boasts an exceptional menu. This establishment consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Nestled in the city's heart, is a perfect choice for discerning cuisine enthusiasts seeking a new experience. Enjoy a sumptuous meal at Babu's, a highly-rated dining destination in Zurich. If you're eager to try something different, consider Cantinetta Antinori, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at El Lokal. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Zurich this evening.

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.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Switzerland!

On day 8 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Zurich, where you'll stay for 2 nights more.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Zurich, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Lucerne. This drive usually takes around 46 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Chapel Bridge, a remarkable sightseeing destination where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 29,995 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Lion Monument Lucerne. This sculpture has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 20,294 travelers.

Swiss Museum of Transport is another must-visit attraction. This renowned technology museum offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 11,571 travelers and attracting 562,605 annual visitors, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

After soaking in Lucerne’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Goldau. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 27 min. When you arrive in Goldau, it's time to take a break from the road.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Nature and Animal Park Goldau. This zoo is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 7,104 reviews.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Zurich.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Zurich.

Make sure to book a table at Aurora, a popular restaurant in Zurich. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Experience a taste of Zurich at Kafi Dihei, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Weisses Rössli. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Zurich tonight.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Ebrietas Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Rimini Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting.

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

On day 9 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Zurich. You’ll stay in Zurich for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Zürich Zoo. This extraordinary zoo is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 26,267 visitors.

Next, make your way to Grossmünster. This top attraction is a church building with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 8,297 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Lindenhof. This square is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 11,365 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Swiss National Museum. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 8,085 travelers.

You can learn more about Zurich today by going on a tour. Zurich offers many top-rated tours and unique experiences that will inspire you. You can browse and select your favorites below.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Zurich. 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.

This popular restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. This acclaimed -recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. With a recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed. Don’t miss out on dining at Viadukt, a top-rated dining destination in Zurich. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider La Pasta, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Metropol. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Zurich this evening.

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.

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 10 of your road trip in Switzerland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 4 vibrant destinations - Neuhausen, Sellenbüren, Winterthur, and Kloten. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Basel. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Neuhausen, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Winterthur to Neuhausen may take around 29 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Neuhausen, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Rhine Falls. Previous visitors have rated this waterfall an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 70,505 reviews.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Zurich, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Sellenbüren. This drive usually takes around 31 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Take the opportunity to see Üetliberg. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,065 visitors.

Uetliberg Lookout Tower is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This park has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,349 travelers.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Basel, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Basel.

This popular restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. This acclaimed -recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. With a recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed. Don’t miss out on dining at HANS IM GLÜCK - BASEL Steinenvorstadt, a top-rated dining destination in Basel. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider KLARA 13 AG, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Mr. Pickwick Pub Basel. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Basel this evening.

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 11 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.

Make the most of your final day in Switzerland by visiting Basel’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Your stay’s proximity to the city’s retail haven invites an unhurried and unforgettable exploration of its variety of stores and establishments. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Switzerland. Take home a piece of Switzerland with these souvenirs, keeping your adventures close.

Before you conclude your road trip in Switzerland, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Basel.

Esteemed as a restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. This venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Located in the heart of the city, is an ideal pick for cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences. If you're in the mood for something new, try Unternehmen Mitte, another premier location with a delectable menu.

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!