Relaxed 12-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 4 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.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Basel by reserving a table at Cheval Blanc by Peter Knogl. Renowned as a 3-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional classic french menu. For a different taste experience, head to roots, recognized for its delicious modern and seasonal dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit Stucki - Tanja Grandits, a local favorite known for its delightful creative and modern cuisine in Basel. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 2 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning creative and modern foodies seeking culinary excellence.

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

Round off your dining experience by visiting Schall und Rauch Bar, a prime location for a drink.

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.

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

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Basel Zoo. This zoo is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 15,178 visitors. Basel Zoo welcomes around 2,012,511 visitors every year.

Fine Arts Museum Basel is another popular attraction you could visit today. This museum has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,049 visitors.

Wettsteinbrücke is also highly recommended by travelers. This road bridge has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 942 visitors.

Basel Paper Mill is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This paper museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 1,409 reviews.

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

On day 3 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!

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Grand Casino Basel. This extraordinary casino is rated an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars by 1,772 visitors.

Next, make your way to Kannenfeldpark. This top attraction is a park with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,501 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Museum of Natural History Basel. This museum is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,084 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Basel Minster. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 7,442 travelers.

Today is also your chance to spend some time at Palatinate (Pfalz) Viewing Platform. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 749 travelers.

Get a dose of thrill, excitement, and inspiration on day 3 of your unhurried and relaxed road trip in Switzerland. Check out the tours and tickets you can add to your Basel itinerary and feel all the emotions in this wonderful city.

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Restaurant Fiorentina Basel, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Unternehmen Mitte offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, WERK 8 is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Basel.

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 Basel. The bars in Basel make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

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

Day 4 of your relaxed road trip through Switzerland means 24 hours of making the best memories in Basel. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by the city of Basel!

When you're ready to see some sights, Dreiländereck is a great place to start. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 1,756 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Museum Tinguely. This art museum has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,311 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at University of Basel Botanical Garden. The botanical garden has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,078 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting Gate of Spalen. This tower is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,475 reviews.

Pharmacy Museum of the University of Basel is another easily accessible place to visit on this day of your trip. Stop by this museum, rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 349 reviews, to discover more of what makes it unique.

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.

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.

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. Make sure to reserve a table at Restaurant Boo Klybeck, an iconic dining spot in Basel. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Flanagan's, a popular restaurant in Basel. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of KaBAR, a hidden gem nestled in Basel. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

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

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 Arlesheim. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the town of Lucerne, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 2 nights.

When you’ve had your share of Münchenstein, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Arlesheim. Your travel time is around 13 min.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Apollogrotte. This park is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Arlesheim, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 413 visitors.

Ermitage Arlesheim is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 737 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Arlesheimer Dom. Visitors have rated this church an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 299 reviews.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Basel, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Münchenstein. This drive usually takes around 11 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Take the opportunity to see Merian Gärten. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,832 visitors.

Reigoldswil’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Arlesheim behind. This drive usually takes around 28 min. Reigoldswil welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Foundation cableway Reigoldswil-Wasserfallen LRW. This extraordinary park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,227 visitors.

Continue your laid-back road trip exploration of the best attractions in Switzerland at Lucerne. Select from top hotels and accommodations in the town to recharge and rejuvenate.

When it’s time to eat, the town has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Lucerne, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Lucerne by reserving a table at Lucide. Renowned for its , this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of contemporary and classic cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Colonnade, renowned for its delectable modern french and seasonal dishes. This distinguished 1-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. And don’t miss Mr. Pickwick Pub Luzern. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Lucerne.

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.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Bar 59. Alternatively, go to Bar 58, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Café Tacuba Neustadt provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

Day 6 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Lucerne, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Switzerland are extraordinary.

Kick off the day at Lion Monument Lucerne, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This sculpture is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 20,294 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Bourbaki-Panorama (building). Bourbaki-Panorama (building) is a museum with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 893 reviews.

Church of St. Leodegar is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This church building is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,649 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Swiss Museum of Transport. This technology museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 11,571 visitors. Visiting Swiss Museum of Transport means you'll be one of 562,605 people who do so every year.

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!

When it’s time to eat, the town has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Lucerne, 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 Bar bei Miguel, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, la vie en rose is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Restaurant Schiff. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Lucerne tonight.

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.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Blue Bar & Smokers Lounge, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Penthouse, a bar catering to every mood and preference.

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

Day 7 of your relaxed road trip across Switzerland promises an exciting agenda full of discovery. You’ll start your day in the town of Lucerne and drive in the direction of the city of Zurich for some laid-back sightseeing.

Set your GPS to Zurich and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 43 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Zurich beckons with new experiences!

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Chapel Bridge. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 29,995 visitors.

Jesuit Church, Lucerne is another popular attraction you could visit today. This church building has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,665 visitors.

Spreuer Bridge, Lucerne is also highly recommended by travelers. This wooden bridge has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 4,066 visitors.

Museggmauer is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This fortification is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,197 reviews.

Another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today is Zytturm. This tower has received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 802 travelers.

In the city of Zurich, 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 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.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Zurich by reserving a table at Widder Restaurant. Renowned as a 2-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional modern french and contemporary menu. For a different taste experience, head to IGNIV Zürich by Andreas Caminada, recognized for its delicious sharing and modern dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit The Restaurant, a local favorite known for its delightful creative and modern cuisine in Zurich. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 2 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning creative and modern foodies seeking culinary excellence.

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.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Rio Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, La Stanza offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Zurich. Kon-Tiki Coffeeshop & Bar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

On day 8 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Switzerland, you’ll go deep into Zurich, where you'll stay for 3 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 Zurich, and meet locals along the way!

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Zürich Zoo. This much-appreciated zoo is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 26,267 reviews.

Next up is Kunsthaus Zürich. This art museum has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 6,594 visitors. As one of the top places to visit in the city, Kunsthaus Zürich welcomes 382,603 visitors annually.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Lindenhof. This square has been rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 11,365 reviews.

Swiss National Museum is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This organization has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 8,085 reviews.

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

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

Esteemed as a restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Aurora, a top-rated dining spot in Zurich. If you're in the mood for something new, try Kafi Dihei, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Weisses Rössli. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Zurich.

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.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Ebrietas Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Rimini Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance.

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

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Fraumünster. This church building is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Zurich, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 3,411 visitors.

Grossmünster is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 8,297 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Chinagarten Zürich. Visitors have rated this park an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 5,420 reviews.

Zürichhorn is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is a river delta rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 2,512 reviews.

Make your way to the fantastic Botanical Garden, perhaps the most famous park in Zurich. This attraction is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 3,198 travelers.

Tours often allow you to see beyond what books and social media feature about Zurich, 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.

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.

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.

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

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

Day 10 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Zurich, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Switzerland are extraordinary.

Make Rieterpark your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 1,233 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at FIFA Museum. With an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 4,338 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this museum every year.

Arboretum Zürich is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This arboretum has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,796 visitors.

When you’re finished at Arboretum Zürich, the perfect next stop is Kronenhalle. This architectural structure is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 1,764 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Zürich Opera House. This opera house is a top place to visit, with a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 6,213 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.

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.

Savor the flavors at Oliver Twist, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Café Bar ODEON beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Tibits. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Zurich tonight.

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.

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

Day 11 of your self-drive tour in Switzerland is your opportunity to see and experience the diversity of the country. You’ll start your day in the hamlet of Sellenbüren and end it in the city of Basel. You’ll stay in Basel 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.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Sellenbüren, 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 Sellenbüren may take around 56 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Sellenbüren, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

When you're ready to see some sights, Üetliberg is a great place to start. This mountain is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,065 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Uetliberg Lookout Tower. This park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,349 travelers.

After soaking in Aathal’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Winterthur. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 28 min. When you arrive in Winterthur, it's time to take a break from the road.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Swiss Science Center Technorama. This technology museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 7,644 reviews.

Continue your journey at Wildpark Bruderhaus. This wildlife park is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,573 travelers from near and far.

When you’ve had your share of Zurich, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Aathal. Your travel time is around 20 min.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Aathal Dinosaur Museum. This natural history museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 3,092 visitors.

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

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Gifthüttli, a top-rated dining destination in Basel. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Schlüsselzunft, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurant Stucki - Tanja Grandits. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Basel this evening.

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.

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 12 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 12 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.

Savor the flavors at soho basel Bar & Club, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Ufer7 Basel beckons with its unique menu offerings.

Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Basel and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 12-day relaxed road trip in Switzerland is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.