Relaxed 12-Day Switzerland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Zurich to Lucerne and Basel

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

Whether you decide to explore Zurich on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Make sure to visit Old Town (Altstadt), a popular neighborhood in Zurich. Spend some time wandering around the area and soak in its distinctive charm. You’ll also discover that several of the city’s must-see attractions are just around the corner. You can also explore Niederdorf today, a neighborhood that’s well worth a visit.

To truly experience Zurich, make sure to drop by Swiss National Museum. This curiosity-inducing museum is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Lindenhof, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Kunsthaus Zürich, one of the most increasingly popular places to see in Zurich. This art gallery is a favorite among locals and travelers alike.

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.

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.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Widder Restaurant, a 2-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional modern french and contemporary menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 2-star Michelin-awardee, IGNIV Zürich by Andreas Caminada, known for its delicious sharing and modern cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Zurich is The Restaurant, a renowned restaurant with a 2-star Guide Michelin recognition and a delicious creative and modern menu.

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.

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

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

On day 3 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Switzerland, you’ll go deep into Zurich, where you'll stay for 1 night, 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!

Check out the intriguing botanical garden, Botanical Garden. Afterward, continue to Zürichhorn, a park every traveler should visit. 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 Chinagarten Zürich. This curiosity-inducing botanical garden is an essential stop. Following that, head to Zürich Opera House, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by Zürich Zoo, a locally renowned zoo in the city.

Switzerland makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun road trip experience. Aside from amazing sights, Switzerland also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

Bring home unique finds from Zurich's bustling shopping hub, Sihlcity. Enjoy a leisurely exploration of unique stores where locals shop. Don’t forget to browse souvenirs and local specialties that make perfect gifts for your loved ones. Beyond shopping, Sihlcity offers plenty of options, including restaurants, primary services, unique landmarks, and community events.

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.

Savor the flavors at Alpenrose, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Kafi Dihei beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Weisses Rössli. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Zurich tonight.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in Switzerland.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Bar Babalu, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Kon-tiki Coffeeshop & Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Nelson is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

Day 4 of your easy, relaxed road trip through Switzerland lets you travel at your own pace and visit multiple places in a single day. Begin by exploring the best sights in Zurich. By evening, drive toward the Lucerne, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 3 nights.

Grossmünster is an ideal stop early in the day. This curiosity-inducing church is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Fraumünster, which may be one of the most stunning places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Zurich on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Arboretum Zürich, a curiosity-inducing park in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Fifa Museum.

In Lucerne, you’ll find plenty of places to unwind after a day on the road. Our top recommendations go perfectly with your laid-back road trip in Switzerland.

Exploring the food culture in Lucerne 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 town.

Have a memorable dining experience in Lucerne by booking a table at Lucide, a 1-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional contemporary and classic menu. For a different culinary experience in Lucerne, Colonnade shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious modern french and seasonal cuisine. This 1-star Michelin-awardee consistently earns high praises, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience.

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.

Keep the evening going at Bar 58, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Blue Bar & Smokers Lounge, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Penthouse, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

Day 5 of your relaxed road trip through Switzerland means 24 hours of making the best memories in Lucerne. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Lucerne. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the town. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Lucerne!

Old Town (Altstadt) is a fantastic place you can explore today in Lucerne. This neighborhood is a testament to the city’s character, and it's easy to spend hours just walking around and admiring the surroundings. Soak in the Lucerne-way-of-life and visit all the nearby sights.

Lion Monument Lucerne is an ideal stop early in the day. This locally renowned monument is a must-visit in the town. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Church Of St. Leodegar, which may be one of the most culturally significant places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Lucerne on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Chapel Bridge, a captivating historical landmark in the town. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Museggmauer.

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

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 town for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Ampersand, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Mr. Pickwick Pub Luzern offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Made in Sud Italienisches Restaurant Luzern is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Lucerne.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Lucerne and unwind at the coolest bars in the town.

Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure 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.

Your adventure in Lucerne is only getting started when you visit Swiss Museum Of Transport, a popular local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Verkehrshaus Planetarium. This worthwhile planetarium is known for its heritage-rich appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Lucerne's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Strandbad Lido Luzern. This mesmerizing beach offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Switzerland by joining a traveler-approved tour in Zurich. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Zurich 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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Bar bei Miguel, a top-rated dining destination in Lucerne. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider la vie en rose, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurant Schiff. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Lucerne this evening.

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

Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in Switzerland!

Day 7 of your relaxed road trip across Switzerland offers a day of exciting discoveries. You’ll start your day in Lucerne and drive in the direction of Basel for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in Basel, where you’ll stay for 4 nights.

Visiting Lucerne Needle Dam is always a good idea. This up-and-coming historical landmark is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the photogenic wonders of Historisches Museum Luzern, a must-see museum in the town.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Spreuer Bridge, Lucerne. This increasingly popular historical landmark offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Männliturm, where you can take in culturally significant features.

Continue your laid-back road trip in Switzerland as you make your way to Basel. Here, you’ll find top hotels and accommodations in the city, perfect for relaxing and recharging.

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 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 establishment with 2 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for creative and modern cuisine in the city.

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

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Schall Und Rauch Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Grenzwert Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is 8 Bar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

On day 8 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Switzerland, you’ll go deep into Basel, 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 Basel, and meet locals along the way!

Basel is brimming with adventures.

Experience Basel Zoo, a well-known zoo in the city. Then, head to Tinguely Fountain and soak in the ambiance of this gorgeous art installation.

There are many interesting places to see in Basel, and when you are ready for more, go to Fine Arts Museum Basel. This is one of the city’s most up-and-coming photogenic spots of interest. After exploring the museum, visit the beloved Basel Paper Mill.

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.

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Essential by Dorint Basel City, 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 Hasenburg, 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 Smilla Café, a hidden gem nestled in Basel. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Consum after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to L'atelier for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Landestelle - Freiluft-loung & Bar is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

Day 9 of your relaxed road trip through Switzerland means 24 hours of making the best memories in Basel. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Basel. 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 Basel!

Enjoy all that Wettsteinbrücke has to offer. This is an underrated road bridge you should not miss. Another must-see is Basel Minster, a beloved church in Basel.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Basel Palatinate "pfalz" Observation Platform. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Museum Of Natural History Basel, another of the city’s up-and-coming attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Middle Bridge, an enchanting place of interest in the city.

Switzerland makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun road trip experience. Aside from amazing sights, Switzerland also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Hotel Les Trois Rois, a highly-rated dining destination in Basel. If you're eager to try something different, consider HANS IM GLÜCK - BASEL Steinenvorstadt, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurant Atelier (im Teufelhof). With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Basel this evening.

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

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

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

Look forward to a unique sightseeing adventure at the underrated Dreiländereck and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Museum Tinguely, an eye-catching museum that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to University Of Basel Botanical Garden, one of the city’s most underrated spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the frequently visited Gate Of Spalen. When you're finished at the historical landmark, Kannenfeldpark awaits your visit. This park is a scenic highlight on today's itinerary.

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

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.

Dine in style at KLARA 13 AG, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Warteck Brewery Basel boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Mr. Pickwick Pub Basel. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Basel.

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

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