11-Day Switzerland Road Trip from Bern traveling north to Basel, Schaffhausen, and Zurich

Say hello to Bern! 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 Bern for 2 nights before you continue your adventure!

Bern 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 Rose Garden Bern or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Find your way to your hotel in Bern. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Switzerland. Settle in and make plans for the evening.

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

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Bern by booking a table at ZOE. This popular restaurant holds , 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.

Continue your lively evening at Adrianos Bar & Café, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in.

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

Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Bern has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Bern by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Bernisches Historisches Museum / Einstein Museum. This much-appreciated museum is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,889 reviews.

Next up is Museum of Communication. This museum has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,923 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Natural History Museum of Bern. This natural history museum has been rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 1,814 reviews.

Zentrum Paul Klee is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This art museum has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,145 reviews. This popular attraction gets 148,610 visits every year.

There are plenty of experiences you can choose from in Switzerland that will add excitement to your vacation. When you’re keen to discover what else Bern has in store for you, use this day to go on a tour. This tour allows curious travelers like you to experience the best of the country. You can make the most of your time in Switzerland by scrolling down and selecting tours and activities to include on your itinerary for the day.

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at McCarthy's Irish Pub Bern, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Aarbergerhof offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Hotel Bellevue Palace. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Bern.

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.

On day 3 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 Bern. In the evening, you’ll end up in Basel, where you will stay for 3 nights.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to UNESCO - Bern Old Town. This point of interest is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Bern, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 4,755 visitors.

Zytglogge is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,374 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Bern Minster. Visitors have rated this church building an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 4,813 reviews.

Bear pit is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is an architectural structure rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 13,960 reviews.

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.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Cheval Blanc by Peter Knogl, a 3-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible classic french menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, roots is one of the best restaurants for modern and seasonal cuisine in Basel. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Stucki - Tanja Grandits. As a top-rated it is an ideal choice for creative and modern cuisine in the city.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Schall und Rauch Bar, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere.

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

On day 4 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Basel. You’ll stay in Basel for 2 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Tinguely Fountain. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,117 visitors.

When you’re finished at Tinguely Fountain, head to Fine Arts Museum Basel. This one-of-a-kind museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 4,049 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Basel Minster. This cathedral is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 7,442 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, then consider a visit to Museum of Natural History Basel. This museum is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,084 visitors.

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

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Basel. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

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.

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

Day 5 of your road trip across Switzerland promises a magnificent time exploring Basel. You have 1 night left in Basel. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Dreiländereck. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars in 1,756 reviews.

Continue your journey at Museum Tinguely. This art museum is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,311 travelers from near and far.

Basel is also the home of Basel Paper Mill. This paper museum has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,409 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Kannenfeldpark. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,501 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

Lastly, don't miss out on Grand Casino Basel. With an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars from 1,772 reviews, it’s hard to refuse the opportunity to see this casino.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your travel plan. Switzerland is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Restaurant Fiorentina Basel, a highly-rated dining destination in Basel. If you're eager to try something different, consider Unternehmen Mitte, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at WERK 8. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Basel this evening.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Switzerland.

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Switzerland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Basel and Neuhausen. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Schaffhausen, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is middle bridge. Previous visitors have rated this road bridge an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 6,025 reviews.

University of Basel Botanical Garden is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This botanical garden is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 1,078 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Gate of Spalen. This tower is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,475 reviews.

Basel Zoo is another outstanding experience in Basel. Around 15,178 travelers have rated this zoo an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars. The attraction hosts 2,012,511 visitors annually.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Neuhausen. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 26 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Drop by the renowned Rhine Falls. This popular waterfall has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 70,505 visitors.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Schaffhausen. Schaffhausen 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 are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Schaffhausen. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Schaffhausen by booking a table at D'Chuchi, a Bib Gourmand restaurant that boasts an exceptional modern menu. If you're eager to try something different, consider Adler, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurant La Piazza. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Schaffhausen this evening.

Continue your lively evening at Eckhaus GmbH, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Bar No13 is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Tabaco Lounge ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Switzerland!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your road trip in Switzerland. Today, you will make 4 stops and experience some of the highlights of Winterthur, Aathal, Kloten, and Sellenbüren. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Zurich, which will be your home away from home for 3 nights.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Winterthur. This drive usually takes around 28 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Kick off the day at Swiss Science Center Technorama, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This technology museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 7,644 reviews.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Aathal, 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 Aathal may take around 29 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Aathal, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Aathal Dinosaur Museum. This much-appreciated natural history museum is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 3,092 reviews.

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

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

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Zurich by booking a table at Widder Restaurant. This popular restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of modern french and contemporary cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to IGNIV Zürich by Andreas Caminada, celebrated for its delectable sharing and modern menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover The Restaurant, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing creative and modern menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

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 celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Switzerland!

Day 8 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Zurich for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Make Zürich Zoo your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this zoo an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 26,267 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Kunsthaus Zürich. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 6,594 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this art museum every year. In fact, this attraction welcomes 382,603 annual visitors.

Kronenhalle is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This architectural structure has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,764 visitors.

When you’re finished at Kronenhalle, the perfect next stop is Zürich Opera House. This opera house is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 6,213 reviews.

To immerse yourself in more memorable moments in Zurich, check out the best-rated tours the region offers. You can discover and choose from all of the top-rated activities you can do on this day in Zurich 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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Aurora, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Kafi Dihei? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Weisses Rössli as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Zurich.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Ebrietas Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Rimini Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Switzerland!

Day 9 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Zurich has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Zurich by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

When you're ready to see some sights, FIFA Museum is a great place to start. This museum is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 4,338 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Arboretum Zürich. This arboretum has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,796 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Chinagarten Zürich. The park has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 5,420 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting Zürichhorn. This river delta is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,512 reviews.

Botanical Garden is another easily accessible place to visit on this day of your trip. Stop by this park, rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 3,198 reviews, to discover more of what makes it unique.

Your discoveries in Zurich do not have to stop there. Check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Zurich on this day of your trip. You can select your tours below.

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

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.

Say good night to Zurich and look forward to another great day of your road trip 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 1 vibrant destinations - Zurich. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Bern. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Kick off the day at Lindenhof, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This square is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 11,365 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Fraumünster. Fraumünster is a church building with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 3,411 reviews.

Grossmünster is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This church building is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 8,297 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Swiss National Museum. This organization is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 8,085 visitors.

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

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

Esteemed as a restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at The BEEF Steakhouse & Bar, a top-rated dining spot in Bern. If you're in the mood for something new, try The Bowling Company AG, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Noa. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Bern.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Switzerland!

Day 11 of your road trip in Switzerland is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Bern before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

On your last day in Switzerland, take time to indulge in shopping at Bern’s popular marketplace. Thanks to your accommodation’s strategic location, the city’s bustling commercial district is only a stone’s throw away, giving you ample time to leisurely explore the area, filled with local shops.

Take time to find the perfect present, reminding you of the charms of Switzerland. Each store here is brimming with unique finds. These souvenirs will help you treasure your memories of Switzerland forever.

Make Bundesplatz one of your first sightseeing stops in Bern. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,059 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

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

If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Ristorante Verdi, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Bern. 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!