Relaxed 13-Day Switzerland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Zurich to Lucerne and Basel

On day 2 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Switzerland, you’ll go deep into Zurich, 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 Zurich, and meet locals along the way!

A top thing to do today is to explore Old Town (Altstadt), a must-see neighborhood in Zurich. It's the perfect starting point for touring the top attractions in the area. You can also visit Niederdorf, an ideal neighborhood for continued sightseeing.

One of the most well-known attractions included on the itinerary is Zürich Zoo. This breathtaking zoo will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Lindenhof and learn what makes this romantic historical landmark unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the often recommended Botanical Garden.

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.

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

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.

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

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Eldorado, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Gotthard Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, La Stanza offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

Day 3 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Zurich, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Switzerland are extraordinary.

Your adventure in Zurich is only getting started when you visit Fraumünster, an increasingly popular local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Grossmünster. This worthwhile church is known for its stunning appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Zurich's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Kunsthaus Zürich. This picture-perfect art gallery offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Zürich Opera House is also worth visiting.

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 city of Zurich to find the best options for you!

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.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Alpenrose, a popular restaurant in Zurich. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Zurich at Kafi Dihei, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Weisses Rössli. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Zurich tonight.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Zurich. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

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

Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in Switzerland!

Day 4 of your relaxed road trip in Switzerland will take you on a self-paced journey to more than one incredible place in one day. See some of the best attractions in Switzerland, taste the most delectable foods and exquisite drinks, and make incredible memories as you go!

Swiss National Museum leaves a lasting impression. This museum is one of the most often recommended places to visit in Zurich. Next, head to Zürichhorn, an increasingly popular park, known for its eye-catching features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Chinagarten Zürich. This eye-catching botanical garden is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Arboretum Zürich and Fifa Museum Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

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

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.

Experience a symphony of flavors at Lucide in Lucerne by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, Lucide delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious contemporary and classic cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Colonnade, acclaimed for its delectable modern french and seasonal specialties. This local 1-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable 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.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Bar 58, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Blue Bar & Smokers Lounge. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Penthouse, another top-rated place in the area.

Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across 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!

Set aside time today to explore Old Town (Altstadt), a standout neighborhood that reflects the essence of the city. While you're there, you'll also be within reach of some of the city's top landmarks, making it easy to maximize your day.

Let Jesuit Church, Lucerne set the tone for the day. Spend some time admiring this inviting church before continuing your journey. Chapel Bridge is your next stop. This interesting historical landmark is one of the best-rated sights in Lucerne.

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 Museggmauer. This breathtaking historical landmark is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Zytturm.

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 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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Ampersand, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Mr. Pickwick Pub Luzern? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Made in Sud Italienisches Restaurant Luzern as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick 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.

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

On day 6 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Switzerland, you’ll go deep into Lucerne, where you'll stay for 2 nights, and see some of the town’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the town's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Lucerne, and meet locals along the way!

Lion Monument Lucerne makes a great addition to your morning plans. This popular monument is a picture-perfect place to see in Lucerne. Continue your discovery at Church Of St. Leodegar, an enchanting church with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Lucerne, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this town so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Swiss Museum Of Transport. This well-known museum offers a photogenic encounter with Lucerne. Next, make your way to Verkehrshaus Planetarium to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Strandbad Lido Luzern, a curiosity-inducing beach that’s sure to impress. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Lucerne.

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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Bar bei Miguel, a top-rated dining spot in Lucerne. If you're in the mood for something new, try la vie en rose, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Restaurant Schiff. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Lucerne.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Lucerne’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Switzerland.

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

Day 7 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Lucerne, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Switzerland are extraordinary.

Start your day at Spreuer Bridge, Lucerne. This history-steeped historical landmark is an increasingly popular place to see in Lucerne. Then, wander over to Historisches Museum Luzern. If photogenic sites excite you, this museum will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Natur-museum Luzern. This photogenic museum is a favorite among visitors.

Lucerne offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Nölliturm is an increasingly popular spot in the town that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the monument, don’t forget to check out the culturally significant Männliturm. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this beloved monument.

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 Lucerne, explore the town like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Grand Casino Luzern, a top-rated dining destination in Lucerne. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Olivo, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Heini Conditorei AG. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Lucerne this evening.

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.

Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back road trip adventure 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 Basel Zoo has to offer. This is a notable zoo you should not miss. Another must-see is Tinguely Fountain, a curiosity-inducing art installation in Basel.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Fine Arts Museum Basel. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Museum Tinguely, another of the city’s up-and-coming attractions.

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 city of Basel to find the best options for you!

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Essential by Dorint Basel City, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Hasenburg offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Smilla Café. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Basel.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Basel and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Consum after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to L'atelier, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Landestelle - Freiluft-loung & Bar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

On day 10 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!

To truly experience Basel, make sure to drop by St. Alban. This beloved historical landmark is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Basel Paper Mill, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Museum Of Contemporary Art, one of the most often recommended places to see in Basel. This museum is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Then, head to Middle Bridge, a top-rated historical landmark that adds another dimension to your day.

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.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Hotel Les Trois Rois, 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 HANS IM GLÜCK - BASEL Steinenvorstadt, 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 Restaurant Atelier (im Teufelhof), a hidden gem nestled in Basel. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

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

Day 11 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Basel, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Switzerland are extraordinary.

Make time for Grand Casino Basel, a worthwhile casino that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Kannenfeldpark, enchanting visitors with its majestic appeal. Continue your exploration at Gate Of Spalen. This historical landmark is one of the city’s most intriguing spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Basel at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit University Of Basel Botanical Garden.

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.

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at KLARA 13 AG, a top-rated dining destination in Basel. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Warteck Brewery Basel, 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 satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Basel this evening.

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.

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 leisurely self-drive tour in Switzerland offers another chance for an in-depth travel experience. On this refreshing new day, you’ll travel from Basel and continue your relaxed road trip adventure in Neuhausen and Zurich. You’ll stay in Zurich for 1 night.

Experience Museum Of Natural History Basel, an often recommended museum in the city. Then, head to Basel Minster and soak in the ambiance of this romantic church.

There are many interesting places to see in Basel, and when you are ready for more, go to Basel Palatinate "pfalz" Observation Platform. This is one of the city’s most intriguing romantic spots of interest.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Neuhausen, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Basel to Neuhausen may take around 1 hour 26 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Neuhausen, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Spend your afternoon discovering Rhine Falls, an astonishing waterfall known for its eye-catching features.

In Zurich, 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.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Viadukt, 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 La Pasta, 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 Best Western Hotel Spirgarten, a hidden gem nestled in Zurich. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Ebrietas Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Total Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Rimini Bar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in Switzerland!