12-Day Switzerland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bern traveling north to Zurich and Basel

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

Prepare for a day full of an awe-inspiring, a picture-perfect, a historically significant, a grand, a romantic, an UNESCO world heritage-designated, a profound, and a picturesque. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Zytglogge. This locally appreciated historical landmark is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Unesco - Bern Old Town, one of the city’s most promising highlights.

Next, check out Bern Minster, one of the most frequently visited places to see in Bern. This church is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Bear Pit. Wander around and soak in the visually striking atmosphere this zoo offers.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. 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 Bern's best restaurants.

Begin your culinary exploration in Bern by securing a reservation at ZOE. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of vegetarian and modern cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Steinhalle, celebrated for its delectable creative and international menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Wein & Sein, a top local spot known for its tantalizing modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Ebrietas Bern, known for its lively atmosphere. Adrianos Bar & Café is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Les Amis / Wohnzimmer offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

On day 3 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Bern. You’ll stay in Bern for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Discover a day packed with a visually striking and a heritage-rich in Bern. Begin your sightseeing with Bundesplatz. This underrated public square is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Bernisches Historisches Museum / Einstein Museum, another must-visit attraction that enhances the city’s allure.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Bern, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Museum Of Communication. This up-and-coming museum is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Zentrum Paul Klee, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.

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

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Rösterei Kaffee und Bar, a top-rated dining destination in Bern. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Kesar, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Aarbergerhof. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bern this evening.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Attika Bar is an excellent place to start.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Switzerland!

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Switzerland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Lucerne. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Zurich, where you’ll be staying for 4 nights.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Lucerne allows for both.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Bern and set your GPS to Lucerne. 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 1 hour 23 min. Upon reaching Lucerne, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Begin your journey at Lion Monument Lucerne and explore the awe-inspiring features. Next, make your way to Church Of St. Leodegar, another highlight in the town. When you’re done exploring the church, continue to Swiss Museum Of Transport, a visually striking museum. Nearby, you will also find Chapel Bridge. This captivating historical landmark is a top place to see in the area. Lastly, head to Spreuer Bridge, Lucerne, an awe-inspiring historical landmark that is perfect for some final exploring in the town.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Zurich. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

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

Start your culinary exploration in Zurich by securing a reservation at Widder Restaurant. This renowned restaurant holds 2 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern french and contemporary cuisine. For another dining delight, visit IGNIV Zürich by Andreas Caminada, celebrated for its delectable sharing and modern 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 The Restaurant, a top local spot known for its tantalizing creative and modern menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Widder Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Rio Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Cp First - Cocktailbar & Lounge is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

Day 5 of your road trip across Switzerland promises a magnificent time exploring Zurich. You have 3 nights left in Zurich. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

A blend of an awe-inspiring, a picture-perfect, a charming, and a heritage-rich await you in Zurich on today’s itinerary. First up is the well-known zoo, Zürich Zoo. It's a standout spot that offers a memorable visit. Afterward, continue to Kunsthaus Zürich. A visit to this art gallery is an enriching experience for all.

As you explore Zurich’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Lindenhof. This notable historical landmark is an essential stop that should not be missed. Following that, head to Swiss National Museum, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Switzerland is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities 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 delicious dinner at Cantinetta Antinori, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? El Lokal offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Aurora. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Zurich.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Eldorado, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Gotthard Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. La Stanza likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Switzerland!

Day 6 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Zurich has to offer. Cherish the 2 nights you have left in Zurich by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Today’s agenda in Zurich includes a botanical garden, a church, and a park. Old Botanical Garden, Zurich is must-visit botanical garden and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Fraumünster, a beloved church, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Grossmünster, a grand church, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Zurich. If you’re looking for more, Chinagarten Zürich is also a beloved attraction that is worthwhile a visit. Lastly, don’t miss Zürichhorn, an increasingly popular gem to see in the city.

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

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Alpenrose, a highly-rated dining destination in Zurich. If you're eager to try something different, consider Kafi Dihei, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Weisses Rössli. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Zurich this evening.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Bar Babalu, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Kon-tiki Coffeeshop & Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Nelson also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

Day 7 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Zurich for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Zurich is home to plenty of attractions that offer a picturesque, a mesmerizing, an instagrammable, a charming, and a historic! Start at Sukkulenten-sammlung Zürich, a frequently visited botanical garden that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Arboretum Zürich, enchanting visitors with its majestic appeal. Continue your exploration at Fifa Museum. This museum is one of the city’s most locally appreciated spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Zurich at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Zürich Opera House. After exploring the opera house, head to the up-and-coming Botanical Garden. This botanical garden will wrap up today’s self-guided sightseeing tour in the city.

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

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Viadukt, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, La Pasta is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Best Western Hotel Spirgarten. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Zurich tonight.

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

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 8 of your road trip in Switzerland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Schaffhausen, Neuhausen, and Siblingen. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Basel. You will spend 3 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Schaffhausen’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Zurich behind. This drive usually takes around 40 min. Schaffhausen welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Kloster Allerheiligen, Schaffhausen. Spend some time admiring the historic features of the monastery before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Museum Zu Allerheiligen. This locally appreciated museum is a traveler-favorite in the town. Not far away, you’ll also find Waldfriedhof Schaffhausen. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the cemetery.

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 Schaffhausen to Neuhausen may take around 9 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Neuhausen, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Your self-guided tour starts at Rhine Falls, an astonishing waterfall that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.

Siblingen’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Neuhausen behind. This drive usually takes around 18 min. Siblingen welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Spend your afternoon discovering Siblinger Randenturm, a curiosity-inducing observation deck known for its romantic features.

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

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

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Basel by booking a table at Cheval Blanc by Peter Knogl. This popular restaurant holds 3 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of classic french cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to roots, celebrated for its delectable modern and seasonal menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Stucki - Tanja Grandits, 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.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Schall Und Rauch Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Grenzwert Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. 8 Bar likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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 9 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.

Start by visiting Dreiländereck, a prime spot to begin your journey. This culturally significant monument is sure to impress. Next on your list is Basel Minster, another must-visit landmark and worthwhile church renowned for its inviting features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the ambiance of Basel by sampling some local delicacies or having a drink. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Tinguely Fountain. This picture-perfect art installation is a remarkable attraction that offers a unique experience. Middle Bridge also adds charm to your journey, and Museum Of Natural History Basel wraps up your day with its photogenic appeal.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. 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 long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Basel. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Don’t miss out on dining at Essential by Dorint Basel City, a top-rated dining destination in Basel. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Hasenburg, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Smilla Café. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Basel this evening.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Consum, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to L'atelier. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Landestelle - Freiluft-loung & Bar, another top-rated place in the area.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Switzerland!

Dive into day 11 of your remarkable road trip in Switzerland. Today you will explore Basel, 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 Bern. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several a breathtaking, a visually striking, a standout, a grand, a charming, an idyllic, and a detailed. Whether you decide to explore Basel on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Gate Of Spalen is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this standout historical landmark before continuing your journey. University Of Basel Botanical Garden is your next stop. This worthwhile botanical garden is one of the best-rated sights in Basel.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Fine Arts Museum Basel. This respected museum is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Wettsteinbrücke and Museum Tinguely.

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

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Bern. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Make sure to book a table at Hotel Bellevue Palace, a popular restaurant in Bern. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Bern at Restaurants Terrasse, 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 Jack's Brasserie. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Bern tonight.

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