Relaxed 11-Day Switzerland Road Trip from Bern to Geneva, and Basel

Your relaxed road trip through Switzerland starts when you reach the incredible city of Bern, where you'll stay for 4 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Bern and begin your adventure in Switzerland.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Bundesplatz. This much-appreciated square is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 3,077 reviews.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Bern. 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 Bern.

Savor the flavors at Brasserie Obstberg, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Süder beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Leichtsinn. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Bern tonight.

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

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

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 Bern as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.

Day 2 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Bern, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Switzerland are extraordinary.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Bernisches Historisches Museum / Einstein Museum, 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 2,952 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Zytglogge. This astronomical clock has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,512 travelers.

Unesco - Bern Old Town is another must-visit attraction. This renowned sightseeing destination offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 4,867 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 Bear Pit. This well-loved architectural structure boasts a 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 14,330 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 city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Bern by booking a table at ZOE. This popular restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of vegetarian, and modern cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Steinhalle, celebrated for its delectable creative, and international menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Wein & Sein, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Bern’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Switzerland.

Continue your lively evening at Ebrietas Bern, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Adrianos Bar & Café is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Les Amis / Wohnzimmer ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in Switzerland continues on day 3, allowing you to create more unforgettable memories. Today’s travel plan offers you the chance to have a more in-depth understanding of Switzerland and its people by visiting the offerings and top attractions of Köniz and beyond. With 2 nights left in Bern, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the town.

Köniz’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Bern behind. This drive usually takes around 19 min. Köniz welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Gurten. This extraordinary mountain has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,898 visitors.

When you’ve had your share of Köniz, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Thun. Your travel time is around 34 min.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Thun Castle, a remarkable museum where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 3,121 reviews.

After soaking in Thun’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Blausee-Mitholz. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 37 min. When you arrive in Blausee-Mitholz, it's time to take a break from the road.

Journey into the unknown at Naturpark Blausee, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable park has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 6,071 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Blausee is a recommended place to visit. This lake is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 3,485 reviews.

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

Exploring the food culture in Bern 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.

Dine in style at Rösterei Kaffee und Bar, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Kesar boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Aarbergerhof. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Bern.

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

Cap off your dinner by heading to Attika Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand.

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

On day 4 of your relaxed road trip across Switzerland, you’ll explore the area around Sion, where you’ll be staying for another 1 night. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Sion will make you fall even more in love with the town and uniqueness of Switzerland.

Set your GPS to Sion and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 38 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Sion beckons with new experiences!

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Domaine Des Iles. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,680 reviews.

Continue your journey at Valère Basilica. This co-cathedral is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 600 travelers from near and far.

Sion is also the home of Tourbillon Castle Ruins. This archaeological site has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,192 visitors.

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

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.

Savor the flavors at Hotel Bellevue Palace, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Restaurants Terrasse beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Jack's Brasserie. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Bern tonight.

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

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 5 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 village of Lavey-Morcles. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Geneva, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 4 nights.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Lavey-Morcles, 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 Bern to Lavey-Morcles may take around 1 hour 17 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Lavey-Morcles, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Take the opportunity to see Les Bains De Lavey. This attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 7,803 visitors.

Montreux’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Lavey-Morcles behind. This drive usually takes around 26 min. Montreux welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Freddie Mercury Statue. This extraordinary point of interest has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 7,945 visitors.

Next, make your way to Promenade Sur Les Quais De Montreux. This park is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 430 reviews.

While in Montreux, we also recommend a visit to Golden Pass Railway. This point of interest has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 2,783 reviews.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Corsier-sur-Vevey. This car ride takes around 12 min.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Chaplin's World. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 8,493 reviews.

In the city of Geneva, 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.

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

Have a memorable dining experience in Geneva by booking a table at Tosca, renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional tuscan menu. For a different culinary experience in Geneva, L'Atelier Robuchon shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious french contemporary cuisine. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Il Lago is known as a top local spot for its delicious italian, and mediterranean cuisine in Geneva. This 1-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

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

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

Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in Switzerland!

Day 6 of your relaxed road trip through Switzerland means 24 hours of making the best memories in Geneva. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Geneva. 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 Geneva!

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is St Pierre Cathedral. Previous visitors have rated this church an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 7,538 reviews.

L'horloge Fleurie is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This floral clock is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 11,932 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Jardin Anglais. This urban park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 18,416 reviews.

The Geneva Water Fountain is another outstanding experience in Geneva. Around 16,374 travelers have rated this point of interest an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

If you long for more, Parc De La Grange is not far away. This park is a lovely addition to your itinerary. Previous visitors have rated it an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 5,180 reviews.

Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Switzerland more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Geneva offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.

Exploring the food culture in Geneva 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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at la Finestra Restaurant, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Restaurant l'Atelier? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Chez ma Cousine as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Geneva.

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.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Pub Lord Jim offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, La Bretelle Bar Associatif is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Le Bateau-lavoir is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in Switzerland!

On day 7 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Switzerland, you’ll go deep into Geneva, 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 Geneva, and meet locals along the way!

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Palace Of Nations. This much-appreciated government building is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 3,691 reviews.

Next up is Broken Chair. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 7,646 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Conservatory And Botanical Garden Of The City Of Geneva. This botanical garden has been rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 7,800 reviews.

Parc Mon Repos is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,442 reviews.

To continue your sightseeing, head over to Bains Des Pâquis. This public bath is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 8,310 reviews.

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

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

Make sure to reserve a table at The Crowned Eagle, an iconic dining spot in Geneva. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of The Little Kitchen, a popular restaurant in Geneva. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Oh Martine!, a hidden gem nestled in Geneva. 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 Geneva.

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

A leisurely self-drive holiday in Geneva can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in Switzerland!

On day 8 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Geneva and visit amazing attractions in Lausanne destinations, just outside of the city. You still have 1 night left in Geneva. This means today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Geneva and set your GPS to Lausanne. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 55 min. Upon reaching Lausanne, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Aquatis Aquarium-vivarium, a remarkable public aquarium where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 7,632 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Lausanne Cathedral. This cathedral has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 5,860 travelers.

Montbenon is another must-visit attraction. This renowned square offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 3,740 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 The Olympic Museum. This well-loved museum boasts a 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 8,722 reviews.

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

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

Make sure to book a table at 22 grand'rue, a popular restaurant in Geneva. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Geneva at Café de Paris - Chez Boubier, 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 Hôtel Métropole Genève. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Geneva tonight.

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.

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

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 Veytaux and continue your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in the village of Gruyères and the village of Pringy. You’ll stay in Basel for 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Geneva, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Veytaux. Your travel time is around 1 hour 19 min.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Chillon Castle. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 19,706 visitors.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Gruyères, 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 Veytaux to Gruyères may take around 43 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Gruyères, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Château De Gruyères. This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 10,730 reviews.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Pringy, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Basel may take around 1 hour 50 min. Upon your arrival in Basel, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to La Maison Du Gruyère. This extraordinary museum is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 8,517 visitors.

You’ll be staying at the incredible city of Basel in this laid-back road trip in Switzerland. You'll stay here for 1 night.

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.

Start your culinary exploration in Basel by securing a reservation at Cheval Blanc by Peter Knogl. This renowned restaurant holds 3 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of classic french cuisine. For another dining delight, visit roots, celebrated for its delectable modern, and seasonal menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Stucki - Tanja Grandits, a top local spot known for its tantalizing creative, and modern menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

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.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Schall Und Rauch Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Grenzwert Bar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, 8 Bar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

Day 10 of your self-drive tour in Switzerland is your opportunity to see and experience the diversity of the country. You’ll stay in Bern for 1 night. 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.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Middle Bridge, a remarkable road bridge where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 6,094 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Basel Minster. This cathedral has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 7,564 travelers.

Tinguely Fountain is another must-visit attraction. This renowned park offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,202 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 Basel Zoo. This well-loved zoo boasts a 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 15,396 reviews. In a single year, approximately 2,012,511 visitors add this sightseeing spot to their travel itineraries.

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

Exploring the food culture in Bern 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.

Savor the flavors at Brasserie Bärengraben, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, The BEEF Steakhouse & Bar beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider The Bowling Company AG. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Bern tonight.

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 and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in 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 Bern.

Maximize your last day in Switzerland and go on a shopping spree in Bern’s shopping center. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Switzerland.

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.

One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Bern is the remarkable Rose Garden Bern. This architectural structure and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 4,547 visitors.

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 Bern or just grab something light to keep you going.

Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Bern 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.