5-Day Switzerland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Basel traveling east to Zurich
Description
Included
Description
Experience the freedom of the open road in Switzerland as you embark on an unforgettable 5-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Basel, Zurich, Neuhausen, and Lucerne.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Switzerland takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Basel and 2 nights in Zurich. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!
With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Switzerland. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.
Upon arriving in Basel, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Switzerland on your own terms.
An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Switzerland. Rhine Falls and Chapel Bridge are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Zürich Zoo, learn more about the unique Lion Monument Lucerne, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Basel Zoo.
As you hit the open road and drive through Basel, Zurich, Neuhausen, and Lucerne, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Switzerland. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Switzerland.
Throughout your road trip in Switzerland, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Switzerland.
This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.
The best services in Switzerland fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Switzerland today!
Itinerary summary
See a summary of the itinerary that you can fully customize
Personalize your itinerary
Customize tours under each day and destination
Day 1
- Basel - Arrival day
- More
- Mittlere Brücke
- More
Your road trip adventure in Switzerland begins as soon as you reach Basel and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Basel for 1 night 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 just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
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.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Basel, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Dine in style at Cargo Kultur Bar, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, KOHLMANNS boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out tibits. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Basel.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at Schall Und Rauch Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Grenzwert Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, 8 Bar is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.
Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in Switzerland!
Day 2
- Basel
- Zurich
- More
Drive 86 km, 1 hour 37 min
- Basel Minster
- Fine Arts Museum Basel
- Tinguely Fountain
- Zoo Basel
- More
On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Switzerland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Basel. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Zurich, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.
Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Start at the worthwhile Basel Minster, an inviting church in Basel. Next, go to Fine Arts Museum Basel.
After visiting Basel Minster and Fine Arts Museum Basel, take time to explore Basel's streets and absorb its charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Tinguely Fountain. This picture-perfect art installation offers a unique experience. Basel Zoo is another noteworthy stop.
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.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Zurich's best restaurants.
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.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Widder Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Rio Bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Cp First - Cocktailbar & Lounge is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Switzerland and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 3
- Zurich
- More
Drive 114 km, 2 hours 13 min
- Rhine Falls
- Lindenhof
- Zürich Zoo
- Old Town (Altstadt)
- Niederdorf
- More
Greet day 3 of your road trip in Switzerland with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Zurich for your remaining 1 night in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Neuhausen and Zurich.
Make sure to visit Old Town (Altstadt), a popular neighborhood in Neuhausen. 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.
Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at the astonishing Rhine Falls, an eye-catching waterfall in Zurich. Next, go to Lindenhof.
After visiting Rhine Falls and Lindenhof, take time to explore Zurich's streets and absorb its charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Zürich Zoo. This breathtaking zoo offers a unique experience.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Zurich and your accommodation.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Zurich. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Savor the flavors at Cantinetta Antinori, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, El Lokal beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Aurora. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Zurich tonight.
After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Eldorado, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Gotthard Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, La Stanza provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Switzerland!
Day 4
- Zurich
- Basel
- More
Drive 156 km, 2 hours 33 min
- Swiss Museum of Transport
- Lion Monument Lucerne
- Chapel Bridge
- Spreuerbrücke
- More
On day 4 of your road trip in Switzerland, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in Lucerne. In the evening, you’ll end up in Basel, where you will stay for 1 night.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Zurich. Some of the town’s most loved attractions await. Swiss Museum Of Transport is the perfect place to start. This museum is one of the most well-known places to visit in Zurich. Next, head to Lion Monument Lucerne, a notable monument, known for its culturally significant 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 Chapel Bridge. This enchanting historical landmark offers a unique experience that is highly recommended. Meanwhile, Spreuer Bridge, Lucerne adds its own distinct charm to your journey.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Basel. Basel offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Basel. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
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.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Consum, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out L'atelier, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Landestelle - Freiluft-loung & Bar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Switzerland!
Day 5
- Basel - Departure day
- More
- Freie Strasse
- More
Day 5 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.
One of the best things to do on your last day is to explore Freie Strasse, a street that captures the true essence of Basel. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.
As your final day in Switzerland unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Basel's best shopping area. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Switzerland.
Before you conclude your road trip in Switzerland, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Basel.
Dine in style at Hotel Les Trois Rois, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, HANS IM GLÜCK - BASEL Steinenvorstadt boasts a menu that's sure to impress.
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!
Similar travel packages
Discover other popular vacations in Switzerland
Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place
Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.
