13-Day Switzerland Road Trip from Basel traveling east to Bern, Lucerne, and Zurich

Your road trip adventure in Switzerland begins as soon as you reach Basel and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Basel for 3 nights and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

Basel 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 middle bridge or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Basel. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.

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

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Schall und Rauch Bar, where the evening is just getting started.

Raise a toast to the start of your 13-day road trip in Switzerland!

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

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Wettsteinbrücke. This road bridge is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Basel, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 942 visitors.

Fine Arts Museum Basel is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,049 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Basel Paper Mill. Visitors have rated this paper museum an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 1,409 reviews.

Museum Tinguely is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is an art museum rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 2,311 reviews.

If you have an appetite for more adventure, check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Basel on this day of your trip. You'll find the most recommended ones below.

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

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 3 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.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Dreiländereck. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 1,756 visitors.

Grand Casino Basel is another popular attraction you could visit today. This casino has a rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars from 1,772 visitors.

Kannenfeldpark is also highly recommended by travelers. This park has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,501 visitors.

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

Another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today is University of Basel Botanical Garden. This botanical garden has received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,078 travelers.

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.

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

Dine in style at Restaurant Fiorentina Basel, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Unternehmen Mitte boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out WERK 8. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Basel.

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

Dive into day 4 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 3 nights.

Make Museum of Natural History Basel your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this museum an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,084 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Palatinate (Pfalz) Viewing Platform. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 749 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this sightseeing destination every year.

Basel Minster is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This cathedral has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 7,442 visitors.

When you’re finished at Basel Minster, the perfect next stop is Basel Zoo. This zoo is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 15,178 reviews. Basel Zoo attracts approximately 2,012,511 visitors annually.

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.

Start your culinary exploration in Bern by securing a reservation at ZOE. This renowned restaurant holds , 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.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Adrianos Bar & Café, a top-rated bar in the area.

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.

Day 5 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Bern for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Kick off the day at Bernisches Historisches Museum / Einstein Museum, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,889 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit bear pit. Bear pit is an architectural structure with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 13,960 reviews.

Rose Garden Bern is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This architectural structure is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 4,381 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Zentrum Paul Klee. This art museum is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,145 visitors. Visiting Zentrum Paul Klee means you'll be one of 148,610 people who do so every year.

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.

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.

Make sure to book a table at McCarthy's Irish Pub Bern, 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 Aarbergerhof, 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 Hotel Bellevue Palace. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Bern tonight.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Switzerland and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 6 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.

When you're ready to see some sights, Federal Palace of Switzerland is a great place to start. This architectural structure is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,882 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Bundesplatz. This square has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,059 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Zytglogge. The astronomical clock has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,374 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting UNESCO - Bern Old Town. This sightseeing destination is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 4,755 reviews.

Bern Minster is another easily accessible place to visit on this day of your trip. Stop by this church building, rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 4,813 reviews, to discover more of what makes it unique.

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

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 The BEEF Steakhouse & Bar, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? The Bowling Company AG offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Noa. 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 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Switzerland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 5 destinations, Beatenberg, Harderkulm, Ballenberg, Innertkirchen, and Lammi. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Lucerne, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Set your GPS to Beatenberg and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 49 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Beatenberg beckons with new experiences!

Start your sightseeing with a visit to St. Beatus Caves. This park is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Beatenberg, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 6,933 visitors.

After soaking in Beatenberg’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Harderkulm. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 27 min. When you arrive in Harderkulm, it's time to take a break from the road.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Harderkulm, a remarkable mountain where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 6,635 reviews.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Lucerne. Lucerne 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.

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

Have a memorable dining experience in Lucerne by booking a table at Lucide, renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional contemporary and classic menu. For a different culinary experience, Colonnade shines as one of the top destinations known for its delicious modern french and seasonal cuisine in Lucerne. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. Experience the culinary magic of Mr. Pickwick Pub Luzern, a hidden gem nestled in Lucerne. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Bar 59, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Bar 58 offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Café Tacuba Neustadt. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 of your road trip in Switzerland. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Lucerne. 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 4 nights.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Spreuer Bridge, Lucerne, a remarkable wooden bridge where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 4,066 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Chapel Bridge. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 29,995 travelers.

Church of St. Leodegar is another must-visit attraction. This renowned church building offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,649 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 Lion Monument Lucerne. This well-loved sculpture boasts a 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 20,294 reviews.

When there’s still energy left for exploring, Swiss Museum of Transport awaits. If you’ve been interested in experiencing a technology museum, this is a top pick rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 11,571 previous visitors. Each year, approximately 562,605 people travel to Lucerne to experience it.

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.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Widder Restaurant, a 2-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional modern french and contemporary menu. If you are in the mood for trying an alternative dining experience, consider visiting the nearby 2-star Michelin-awardee, IGNIV Zürich by Andreas Caminada, known for its delicious sharing and modern cuisine. Another highly-recommended restaurant in Zurich is The Restaurant, a renowned restaurant , known for its delicious creative and modern menu.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Rio Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, La Stanza offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Kon-Tiki Coffeeshop & Bar, another top-rated bar in the area.

Say good night to Zurich and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Switzerland!

Day 9 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Zurich has to offer. Cherish the 3 nights you have left in Zurich by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Make Fraumünster one of your first sightseeing stops in Zurich. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 3,411 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Grossmünster is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This church building is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 8,297 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Chinagarten Zürich. This park has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 5,420 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to Zürichhorn. A trip to this popular river delta is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.7 out of 5-star rating as given by 2,512 previous visitors.

Another top place to visit is Botanical Garden. This park enjoys an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 3,198 local and international travelers.

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 Zurich 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.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Zurich.

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.

Continue your lively evening at Ebrietas Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Rimini Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood.

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

Day 10 of your road trip across Switzerland promises a magnificent time exploring Zurich. You have 2 nights left in Zurich. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Zürich Zoo. This extraordinary zoo is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 26,267 visitors.

Next, make your way to Kunsthaus Zürich. This top attraction is an art museum with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 6,594 visitors. Kunsthaus Zürich welcomes 382,603 yearly visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Kronenhalle. This architectural structure is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,764 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Zürich Opera House. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 6,213 travelers.

To do something one-of-a-kind on this day of your trip, you can join a tour. You can discover all of the most fun and eye-opening experiences in your destination below and secure your spot here.

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

Savor the flavors at Viadukt, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, La Pasta beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Metropol. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Zurich tonight.

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

Day 11 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Zurich for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at MFO-Park. This urban park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,428 visitors.

When you’re finished at MFO-Park, head to Swiss National Museum. This one-of-a-kind organization is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 8,085 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Lindenhof. This square is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 11,365 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, then consider a visit to FIFA Museum. This museum is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 4,338 visitors.

To round off your sightseeing experience, make your way to Arboretum Zürich. This famous arboretum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,796 travelers.

You can learn more about Zurich today by going on a tour. Zurich offers many top-rated tours and unique experiences that will inspire you. You can browse and select your favorites 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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Oliver Twist, an iconic dining spot in Zurich. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Café Bar ODEON, a popular restaurant in Zurich. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Tibits, a hidden gem nestled in Zurich. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Say good night to Zurich and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Switzerland!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 12 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 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Zurich and set your GPS to Schaffhausen. 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 41 min. Upon reaching Schaffhausen, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Kick off the day at Museum zu Allerheiligen, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 286 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Reformierte Kirche St. Johann. Reformierte Kirche St. Johann is a church with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 192 reviews.

Waldfriedhof Schaffhausen is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 324 visitors.

Set your GPS to Neuhausen and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 9 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Neuhausen beckons with new experiences!

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Rhine Falls. This waterfall is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 70,505 visitors.

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.

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

Relax and reminisce about your day in Switzerland and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Day 13 of your road trip in Switzerland is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Basel 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 Basel’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.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Tinguely Fountain. This extraordinary park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,117 visitors.

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

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

You’ll then say farewell to Basel. 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!